A guide who has been there
Many of our attorneys have navigated immigration themselves. We lead with empathy, because we know what is at stake when it is your family on the line.
Family-Based Immigration
Your last step to becoming a citizen.
We help green card holders become U.S. citizens with clear guidance at every step.
Overview
Becoming a U.S. citizen is a milestone worth celebrating. If you have held a green card for several years, naturalization gives you the right to vote, travel freely, and build a permanent future here. We help you file with confidence and prepare for every step ahead.
Why Choose Ellis Porter?
One attorney, start to finish
You work with a dedicated attorney who knows your story. No repeating yourself, no conflicting answers, and promptly responds to your questions.
Clarity at every step
No jargon and no guesswork. We explain each step in plain language so you always know where your case stands and what comes next.
Done right the first time
We prepare careful, complete filings so you can avoid the delays and stressful surprises that come from a petition that is missing pieces.
Results that reflect real experience.
- 23+ Years guiding clients through a system that rarely stands still.
- 90k+ Immigration approvals secured for individuals, families, and employers.
- 4.9/5 Average client review rating across hundreds of cases.
Family-Based Immigration
Knowing when you are ready.
Most green card holders can apply for citizenship after five years, or three years if you are married to a U.S. citizen. A few other rules apply, and small details can affect your timing. We review your history and confirm when you are ready to file.
Time as a green card holder
Most applicants qualify after five years as a permanent resident, or three years if married to and living with a U.S. citizen.
Time spent in the country
You must show you have been physically present and have kept the United States as your home for enough of that time. We help you confirm this.
Good moral character
USCIS looks at your recent record. If you have any concerns, such as past arrests or tax issues, we review them honestly with you before you file.
The test and the interview
Most applicants take an English and civics test at the interview. We tell you what to expect and how to prepare so you can walk in ready.
Family-Based Immigration
A clear process, start to finish.
You should never wonder where your case stands. We confirm you are eligible, prepare your N-400 application, and help you get ready for the test and interview, so you always know what to expect and what to do next.
Confirm you are eligible
We review your green card history and record to confirm you are ready to apply and to flag anything to address first.
Prepare and file the N-400
We prepare your citizenship application and supporting documents, then file your N-400 with USCIS.
Prepare for test and interview
We help you prepare for the English and civics test and the interview so you feel ready and confident on the day.
Take your oath
Once approved, you take the Oath of Allegiance at your ceremony and officially become a U.S. citizen.
Featured Family Immigration Attorneys
Frequently Asked Questions
How long must I have a green card first?
Usually five years, or three years if you are married to and living with a U.S. citizen. We confirm the right timeline for your situation.
Do I have to take a test in English?
Most applicants take an English and civics test at the interview. Some applicants qualify for an exception based on age or time as a resident. We help you prepare either way.
Can past problems affect my application?
They can. Arrests, missed taxes, or long trips abroad can raise questions about eligibility. We review your record honestly before you file so there are no surprises.
Will I lose my current citizenship?
Not always. Many countries allow dual citizenship, but rules vary. We can point you to the right questions to ask about your home country.
What happens at the interview?
A USCIS officer reviews your application, asks about your background, and gives the English and civics test. We help you prepare for each part.
Hundreds of Success Stories
I am incredibly grateful for the outstanding support I received during my naturalization process. From the very beginning, [my Ellis Porter attorney] made everything clear, easy to understand, and guided me step by step with patience and care. They were always responsive, knowledgeable, and genuinely invested in my success. Thanks to their expertise, the entire process was smooth, efficient, and stress-free. I could not have asked for better legal representation. I highly recommend Ellis Porter to anyone!
We had the pleasure of working with [Ellis Porter] on our I-751 and N-400 applications. [Our attorney] and her team made the process incredibly smooth for us. They offered us a free consultation call where [they] explained the process, the documents we’d need, and answered all our questions about the process, timelines, travel, and more. [My Ellis Porter attorney] has always been incredibly patient and helpful in answering our questions. Just before our interview, she hosted a prep call where she went over what to expect from the interview. Her guidance was spot-on throughout the entire process, which is a testament to her experience and seniority. I highly recommend [my Ellis Porter attorney] to anyone who needs an immigration attorney. I’ll definitely introduce her to friends and family who might need her services.
Request a Consultation Today
Tell us how long you have held your green card and a little about your history. We will help you understand whether you are ready to apply for citizenship and what comes next.