Citizenship & Naturalization Attorney in East Orange, New Jersey

For many immigrants, becoming a U.S. citizen represents the culmination of years of hard work, sacrifice, and dedication. It marks a turning point—offering new opportunities, stability, and the right to fully participate in the country they've long called home. But the process of naturalization can often feel overwhelming, especially when faced with unfamiliar rules, strict requirements, and confusing paperwork.

Those pursuing U.S. citizenship often face delays, requests for additional documents, or interviews that can be difficult to prepare for alone. These challenges aren’t just technical—they’re deeply personal. 

For individuals and families, the outcome of a citizenship application affects their sense of belonging, safety, and future opportunities. That’s why it’s so important to approach the process with the right support and preparation.

At the Law Office of Angus U Ejiofor, LLC in East Orange, New Jersey, every applicant receives guidance grounded in compassion, experience, and clarity. If you’re thinking about applying for citizenship, call today to discuss your options with an experienced immigration attorney and move forward with peace of mind.

Eligibility for Naturalization

The path to naturalization isn’t the same for everyone. However, most applicants begin the process after becoming lawful permanent residents (green card holders). U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) outlines a core set of criteria that applicants must meet before filing for citizenship.

The standard eligibility requirements include being at least 18 years old, holding permanent resident status for five years (or three years if married to a U.S. citizen), demonstrating continuous residence and physical presence in the U.S., and showing good moral character. Applicants must also pass English and civics exams and take an oath of allegiance.

Even if someone meets these general qualifications, exceptions, waivers, or special cases may apply. Working with an immigration attorney can help identify which requirements apply, and whether any accommodations or waivers might be available. 

As applicants prepare to demonstrate their eligibility, the next step is to gather documents and complete the N-400 application.

Preparing for the Application

The N-400 is the official form used to apply for naturalization. Although it may appear straightforward at first glance, many applicants underestimate the level of detail needed and the potential consequences of submitting incomplete or inaccurate information. Mistakes or omissions can result in delays—or worse, denials.

Applicants must provide detailed information about their immigration history, employment, travel, family life, and any encounters with law enforcement. Even minor issues, like unpaid taxes or prior citations, must be disclosed and explained. This step is where the knowledge of an immigration attorney proves especially valuable.

A well-prepared application includes all necessary evidence and anticipates any questions that USCIS officers might raise. Once the N-400 is filed, applicants must wait for a biometrics appointment and, eventually, their naturalization interview. This interview is one of the most important steps in the process.

What to Expect During the Interview

The naturalization interview serves two purposes: to confirm the information on the application and to test the applicant’s knowledge of U.S. history, government, and the English language. Preparing for this interview takes more than just memorizing a list of facts.

Applicants should be ready to discuss details from their application, especially anything related to travel, employment, or criminal history. The USCIS officer may ask questions that test honesty and accuracy, making preparation essential. 

Most applicants will also take a civics test with 10 questions, drawn from a standardized list, and read and write basic sentences in English.

Some key factors to keep in mind include:

• Understanding the civics questions: While the test only includes 10 questions, studying all 100 potential questions helps applicants feel more confident. Topics range from the Constitution to U.S. geography.
  
  

• Preparing for the English test: USCIS provides sample questions for reading and writing. Reviewing these ahead of time helps minimize anxiety and confusion during the interview.
  
  

• Reviewing your N-400: Officers often ask questions based on information in the application. Reviewing this document before the interview helps applicants stay consistent in their answers.
  
  

• Being honest: If there’s a mistake on the application, it’s better to explain it than to ignore it. An immigration attorney can help clarify how to address such issues without jeopardizing the case.
  
  

The interview can feel intimidating, but with the right support and preparation, many applicants complete it successfully. After the interview, the final step in the journey is the naturalization ceremony.

The Oath of Allegiance Ceremony

If the interview goes well and USCIS approves the application, the applicant will receive a notice to attend an oath ceremony. This final step is what makes citizenship official. During the ceremony, applicants take the Oath of Allegiance, surrender their green cards, and receive a certificate of naturalization.

This moment is often filled with emotion—relief, pride, and celebration. It also comes with new rights and responsibilities. New citizens can vote, apply for a U.S. passport, sponsor relatives, and enjoy protections not available to non-citizens.

Although this is the last step in the legal process, it’s also a beginning. New citizens must continue to fulfill their civic duties and stay informed about their rights. That’s why having an immigration attorney who remains a trusted resource even after naturalization is so beneficial.

Common Challenges and Delays

While the process may seem simple on paper, many applicants run into delays or obstacles along the way. Sometimes the delay is due to background checks taking longer than expected. In other cases, USCIS may issue a Request for Evidence (RFE) asking for more documents.

Travel outside the U.S., prior immigration violations, or criminal history can also raise red flags during review. Even small issues—like unpaid taxes or misstatements on earlier visa applications—can lead to complications. These challenges may feel overwhelming, especially for those trying to go through the process without legal guidance.

Having an experienced immigration attorney from the start can make a significant difference. By identifying potential issues early and preparing responses ahead of time, applicants can avoid unnecessary setbacks and keep their cases on track. Addressing delays properly leads into the topic of unique situations where naturalization may be handled differently.

Special Situations for Naturalization

Not all naturalization cases follow the standard process. Some applicants, such as spouses of U.S. citizens, military members, and children of citizens, may be eligible for modified requirements or exceptions. Each of these situations presents its own opportunities and challenges.

For example, spouses of U.S. citizens can often apply after just three years of permanent residence, provided they meet certain residency and marital requirements. Military service members may qualify for expedited naturalization and may be exempt from some standard fees or testing requirements. 

Children under 18 may automatically acquire citizenship under certain conditions if their parents are citizens.

Because these special categories involve additional eligibility rules and documentation, working with a knowledgeable immigration attorney is especially helpful. These cases require a precise understanding of both immigration law and the applicant’s personal history. The firm’s ability to tailor guidance to these cases can be the difference between approval and denial.

Benefits of Citizenship

Becoming a U.S. citizen brings both personal and legal benefits. Beyond the right to vote and apply for federal jobs, citizenship provides stability and peace of mind. Citizens don’t have to renew green cards or worry about losing status due to travel or criminal convictions.

Citizens can also petition for a wider range of family members to immigrate to the U.S., often with shorter wait times than green card holders. This opens the door to family reunification and greater long-term planning. Financial benefits also follow, such as eligibility for certain public programs, scholarships, and government grants.

For many, though, the true benefit lies in a sense of belonging. Naturalization gives individuals the ability to fully participate in civic life, shape their communities, and make their voices heard.

With years of experience as an immigration attorney, Attorney Angus U. Ejiofor understands the stakes and takes pride in helping individuals reach their goals with confidence and dignity. As applicants look ahead to their citizenship ceremony, having that support in place makes all the difference.