U.S. citizenship opens doors that a green card alone cannot, like stronger job opportunities, the ability to vote, and protection from deportation. At Mendoza Law Firm, the fight continues, and our naturalization lawyers in Houston are proud to stand by you as you take this important step.
We have served over 100,000 clients and bring more than 100 years of combined legal experience to every case we take on. Contact our immigration lawyer in Houston to learn how we can help you prepare.
Naturalization Eligibility
Before you file, you need to confirm that you actually qualify to apply. USCIS has specific requirements, and submitting too early can result in a denial. Taking time to review your eligibility carefully is always worth it.
Most applicants must meet these core requirements:
- Hold lawful permanent resident status for at least five years (or three years if married to a U.S. citizen)
- Have maintained continuous residence in the United States during that period
- Have been physically present in the U.S. for at least half of the required residence period
- Be at least 18 years old at the time of filing
- Show good moral character over the required period
Some applicants, including certain military members and long-term residents over 50, may qualify for exemptions or modified requirements. Our Houston naturalization lawyers can review your situation and help you understand what needs to be done before you apply.
For a free case evaluation with a naturalization lawyer serving Houston, call +1 (202) 933-3379
Continuous Residence and Physical Presence in Houston
Two of the most misunderstood requirements in the naturalization process are continuous residence and physical presence. Continuous residence means you have not abandoned your U.S. residence, while physical presence refers to the actual number of days you have spent in the country.
Extended trips outside the United States can disrupt your continuous residence. A single trip lasting more than six months may trigger a presumption that you have broken your continuous residence. Trips over a year could reset your eligibility clock entirely.
If you have spent significant time outside the U.S. during your residence period, it does not automatically mean you are disqualified. There are ways to address these issues, and our team can help you assess your travel history and determine how it affects your case.
Houston Naturalization Lawyer Near Me +1 (202) 933-3379
How Your Criminal Record Can Affect Your Application
USCIS reviews your moral character over your entire required residence period — and in some cases, even earlier. Arrests, charges, and convictions can all come up during the naturalization process, even if the matter was resolved years ago. You must be transparent with USCIS to avoid a charge of misrepresentation.
Certain offenses can bar you from naturalization permanently or temporarily. These include aggravated felonies, drug-related offenses, and crimes involving moral turpitude. Even offenses that were expunged or dismissed may still need to be disclosed.
This is an area where working with an experienced Houston naturalization attorney can make a real difference. Our team reviews your full background before you file, so there are no surprises during your interview.
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Why Mendoza Law Firm is Different
Mendoza Law Firm was built on a simple idea: quality over quantity. We do not take every case that comes through the door. We take the cases we believe in, and we pursue them with the full weight of our legal team. That selective approach has allowed us to serve over 100,000 clients while maintaining a standard of care that high-volume firms simply cannot offer.
Our anti-fraud auditing process verifies the integrity of every case before we move forward. This protects our clients and the strength of their petitions.
Founded in 2016, our firm has grown to over 1,400 employees and currently represents clients in major litigation against the current administration. When you bring your naturalization case to us, you are working with a firm that fights at every level.
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Preparing for the English and Civics Tests
The English and civics tests are a required part of the naturalization interview for most applicants. The civics test covers U.S. history and government, and the English portion tests your ability to read, write, and speak in English.
USCIS provides a list of 100 possible civics questions, from which an officer will ask up to 10 during your interview. You must answer at least six correctly to pass. The English test is administered throughout the interview itself.
Applicants who are 65 or older and have held a green card for at least 20 years may qualify for a modified civics test. Certain applicants with qualifying medical conditions may also be exempt from the English requirement. Our team can help you determine which requirements apply to your case.
Start Your Path to Citizenship With Mendoza Law Firm
Becoming a U.S. citizen in Houston is a serious legal process, and the decisions you make at each stage can affect the outcome of your case. You deserve a legal team that takes the time to understand your situation and build the strongest possible file on your behalf. Contact Mendoza Law Firm today to speak with Attorney Maria and our team of Houston naturalization attorneys.
Call or text +1 (202) 933-3379 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
