How to Become a U.S. Citizen in California: The Complete Naturalization Guide

Becoming a United States citizen is one of the most significant milestones in an immigrant’s life. It grants the right to vote, the ability to sponsor close family members without long waits, access to federal jobs, protection from deportation, and the full and permanent security that comes with American citizenship.

If you are a lawful permanent resident (Green Card holder) living in California and considering naturalization, this guide will walk you through every step of the process, from determining whether you are eligible to taking the Oath of Allegiance at a ceremony in your community.

What Is Naturalization?

Naturalization is the legal process through which a foreign-born individual becomes a citizen of the United States. It is governed by the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) and administered by United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Naturalization is not automatic. Even if you have held a Green Card for decades, you must affirmatively apply, pass required tests, attend an interview, and take the Oath of Allegiance before you are recognized as a U.S. citizen.

Am I Eligible for Naturalization?

Before filing your application, you must confirm that you meet all eligibility requirements. USCIS will evaluate each requirement carefully, and failure to meet even one can result in denial.

Basic Eligibility Requirements

1. You must be at least 18 years old at the time of filing.

There is no naturalization application for minors. However, children under 18 may automatically become citizens when their parent naturalizes, under certain conditions established by the Child Citizenship Act.

2. You must be a lawful permanent resident (Green Card holder).

You must have a valid Green Card. If your Green Card has expired, you should renew it (Form I-90) before or concurrently with your naturalization application, though an expired card alone does not disqualify you.

3. You must meet the continuous residence requirement.

4. You must demonstrate good moral character.

USCIS evaluates your moral character for the statutory period (5 years or 3 years, depending on your basis for filing). Factors that can negatively affect good moral character include:

• Criminal convictions (especially aggravated felonies, crimes involving moral turpitude, drug offenses, and domestic violence)
• Failure to pay taxes or file tax returns
• Lying to USCIS or providing fraudulent documents
• Failing to pay court-ordered child support or alimony
• Habitual drunkenness or illegal gambling
• Being on probation or parole at the time of filing

Some criminal convictions permanently bar naturalization. Others create temporary bars. An attorney experienced in immigration and criminal law can evaluate whether past incidents affect your eligibility.

5. You must be able to read, write, and speak basic English.

The English language requirement is tested during your naturalization interview. You must demonstrate the ability to read a sentence in English, write a sentence in English, and communicate in English with the USCIS officer.

6. You must pass the U.S. civics test.

You must demonstrate knowledge of U.S. history and government. The test is administered orally during your interview (the officer asks you questions and you answer verbally).

7. You must be willing to take the Oath of Allegiance to the United States.

The oath includes a commitment to support the Constitution, renounce foreign allegiances, and bear arms or perform noncombatant service if required. Modifications are available for those with religious or conscientious objections.

The Naturalization Process: Step by Step

Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility and Filing Date

You can file Form N-400 up to 90 days before you meet the continuous residence requirement. For example, if you received your Green Card on June 1, 2021, and are filing under the 5-year rule, you can submit your application as early as March 3, 2026 (90 days before June 1, 2026).

Step 2: Gather Your Documents

Before filing, collect the following:

• A copy of your Green Card (front and back)
• Your passport and any travel documents
• Two passport-style photos (if filing by mail)
• A record of every trip outside the U.S. during the statutory period (dates of departure and return)
• Tax returns for the statutory period (5 or 3 years)
• Court records for any arrests, citations, or charges, even if dismissed
• Marriage certificate (if filing based on marriage to a U.S. citizen)
• Spouse’s proof of citizenship (if applicable)
• Divorce decrees for any prior marriages
• Proof of any legal name changes

Step 3: File Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization)

Form N-400 can be filed online through your USCIS account or by mail. The form is lengthy, approximately 20 pages, and asks detailed questions about your background, residences, employment, travel history, family, criminal record, and moral character.

Answer every question truthfully. Misrepresentation on Form N-400 is a serious offense that can result in denial, revocation of any citizenship granted, and even criminal prosecution.

Filing Fees (2026 Updates)

As of 2026, USCIS has implemented fee adjustments across its forms. The current filing fee for Form N-400 is $760, which includes the $710 application fee and the $85 biometrics fee (now bundled into the application fee for most applicants). Fee waivers (Form I-912) are available for applicants who demonstrate an inability to pay based on income, receipt of means-tested benefits, or financial hardship.

Reduced fees are available for applicants with household income between 150% and 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. Check the USCIS website or consult with an attorney for the most current fee information, as USCIS adjusts fees periodically.

Step 4: Biometrics Appointment

After USCIS receives your application, you will receive a notice scheduling your biometrics appointment. At this appointment, USCIS will collect your fingerprints, photograph, and signature for background checks.

California biometrics locations include Application Support Centers in San Diego, Los Angeles (multiple locations), San Francisco, Sacramento, Fresno, San Jose, and Santa Ana.

Attend your biometrics appointment on time. If you cannot make the scheduled date, you can request a reschedule, but this will delay your case.

Step 5: Prepare for the English and Civics Tests

The naturalization interview includes two tests: the English test and the civics test.

The English Test

The English test has three components:

• Reading: You will be asked to read one out of three sentences correctly. The sentences use vocabulary from the USCIS reading vocabulary list.
• Writing: You will be asked to write one out of three sentences correctly. The sentences use vocabulary from the USCIS writing vocabulary list.
• Speaking: Your ability to speak English is evaluated throughout the interview based on your responses to the officer’s questions.

The Civics Test

The civics test draws from a list of 100 questions about American government and history. During the interview, the USCIS officer will ask you up to 10 questions, and you must answer at least 6 correctly to pass.

Applicants who qualify for the 50/20 or 55/15 exemptions take a simplified version of the civics test (25 questions, answer 6 correctly) and may take the test in their native language with the help of an interpreter.

Step 6: Attend Your Naturalization Interview

The interview is the most important step in the naturalization process. It takes place at a USCIS field office. In California, naturalization interviews are conducted at the following USCIS field offices, among others:

What to Expect During the Interview

1. You will be placed under oath. Everything you say must be truthful.
2. The officer will review your N-400 application. They will go through each section, asking you to confirm or correct your answers. This is your opportunity to update any information that has changed since filing (new address, new trips abroad, new arrests, etc.).
3. You will take the English reading and writing tests.
4. You will take the civics test.
5. The officer will make a decision. At the end of the interview, the officer will typically tell you one of three outcomes:
   • Approved (Form N-652 with “Congratulations” checked): You passed and your application is approved. You will be scheduled for an oath ceremony.
   • Continued: The officer needs additional evidence or documentation. You will receive a follow-up notice.
   • Denied: You did not meet one or more requirements. You will receive a written denial with your right to appeal.

Step 7: Take the Oath of Allegiance

The final step is attending the Oath of Allegiance ceremony. In California, oath ceremonies are held at USCIS field offices, federal courthouses, and sometimes at large public venues for administrative ceremonies involving hundreds of new citizens.

At the ceremony, you will:

• Turn in your Green Card
• Recite the Oath of Allegiance
• Receive your Certificate of Naturalization (Form N-550)

You are a United States citizen the moment you take the oath. From that point forward, you have all the rights, privileges, and responsibilities of citizenship.

Our attorneys accompany you to your USCIS interview and guide you through the entire citizenship process

Common Reasons Naturalization Applications Are Denied

Understanding why applications are denied can help you avoid these pitfalls:

Failure to Meet Continuous Residence or Physical Presence Requirements

Long trips abroad are the most common problem. If you spent more than 6 months outside the U.S. on a single trip, USCIS may find that you broke your continuous residence. Trips exceeding one year almost always disqualify you for the current statutory period.

Criminal History Issues

Certain convictions are permanent bars (aggravated felonies). Others are temporary bars or raise moral character concerns. Even arrests that did not lead to convictions must be disclosed. Failure to disclose an arrest is itself a ground for denial based on lack of good moral character.

Failure to Pay Taxes

USCIS routinely requests tax transcripts and may deny an application if the applicant failed to file required tax returns or owes significant back taxes.

Misrepresentation on the Application

Any false statement on Form N-400, whether about your travel history, criminal record, or marital status, can result in denial and potentially more severe consequences.

Failure to Pass the English or Civics Tests

If you fail either test at your initial interview and again at the rescheduled retake, your application will be denied. However, you can reapply.

Current Processing Times for Naturalization in California (2026)

Processing times vary by USCIS field office. As of early 2026, estimated processing times for N-400 applications in California are:

These times are estimates based on recent data and can change. USCIS publishes updated processing times on its website. Certain applicants, including those in the military, may be eligible for expedited processing.

How Bueno Immigration Helps with Naturalization

At Bueno Immigration, our team is dedicated to guiding permanent residents through every step of the naturalization process. We serve clients throughout California, including in San Diego, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Fresno.

Our naturalization services include:

• Eligibility evaluation: We review your residence history, travel records, criminal background, and tax history to confirm you are eligible and identify any issues that need to be addressed before filing.
• Application preparation: We prepare your N-400 with precision, ensuring all questions are answered accurately and all supporting documents are organized and complete.
• Interview preparation: We conduct mock interviews to prepare you for the questions the officer will ask, and we accompany you to your interview at the USCIS field office.
• Addressing complications: If you have a criminal record, tax issues, prolonged travel abroad, or other potential obstacles, we develop strategies to overcome them.

Visit our naturalization and citizenship service page for more information about how we can help.

We are proud to help permanent residents across California achieve the dream of U.S. citizenship

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog post is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this post does not create an attorney-client relationship with Bueno Immigration or Bueno Law. Immigration law is complex and changes frequently. Filing fees, processing times, and eligibility requirements referenced in this article are subject to change. Individual results depend on the specific facts and circumstances of each case. If you need legal assistance, please contact our office to schedule a consultation with a licensed attorney.