Our Chicago Immigration Lawyers Pave Your Path to U.S. Citizenship

Here to Assist in Your Journey to U.S. Citizenship

Becoming a U.S. citizen is a significant milestone, and the N-400 naturalization process is the pathway to achieving this goal for many. The N-400 form, officially known as the Application for Naturalization, is used by lawful permanent residents (green card holders) to apply for U.S. citizenship. When this petition is approved by USCIS, applicants gain the full rights and responsibilities that come with being a U.S. citizen.

Minsky, McCormick & Hallagan, P.C. can help guide you on the path to citizenship. With over 50 years of focused immigration law experience, we offer the help you need to keep you on the path to the American dream.

Who We Can Help

Our immigration lawyers in Chicago regularly represent: 

• Green card holders (LPRs) seeking to become U.S. citizens through naturalization, who may be unsure if they qualify or where to start

• Individuals who need help preparing and filing applications for naturalization 

• Applicants wanting assistance when they attend naturalization interviews with USCIS

• Those who have what is considered qualifying service in the U.S. armed forces

• Children who could qualify if their parent is a U.S. citizen and the child was born and is residing outside the United States

We represent all types of applicants, including people who may qualify based on other circumstances such as marriage to a U.S. citizen employed abroad by a U.S. company. We can also represent people born abroad who want to demonstrate a claim to citizenship through one or both U.S. citizen parents or grandparents. This category includes individuals who were adopted by U.S. citizens in the United States or abroad.

Eligibility Criteria for Naturalization

To be eligible to file the N-400 form, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Age: Must be at least 18 years old.
• LPR Status: Must have been a lawful permanent resident for at least 5 years, or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen.
• Physical Presence: Must have been physically present in the U.S. for at least 30 months out of the 5 years (or 18 months out of the 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen).
• Continuous Residency: Should not have trips outside the U.S. for longer than 6 months during the qualifying period.
• Good Moral Character: Must demonstrate good moral character, which includes a clean criminal record and adherence to U.S. laws.

Applicants must also attend a biometrics appointment when applicable, attend an interview, and pass tests covering basic English and U.S. civics.

Why Work With Our Firm as You Pursue Citizenship?

• Five Decades of Experience: For more than 50 years, immigration and nationality law has been our only practice, so we understand the naturalization process inside and out.
• Nationally Recognized Lawyers: When you work with us, respected authorities in immigration law will prepare and review your case.
• Large-Firm Depth With Small-Firm Attention: You gain the resources and knowledge of an established firm paired with the personal attention of a team that knows your name and your story.
• Communication You Can Count On: We answer your questions and keep you informed as you go through the process.
• A Genuine Belief in Your Success: We hold that immigrants strengthen this country, and we take pride in helping people reach the citizenship they have worked so hard to earn.

Contact Our Immigration Lawyers in Chicago to Assist You in Filing for Naturalization and Obtaining Citizenship

Our immigration lawyers are here to help you apply for U.S. citizenship. Minsky, McCormick & Hallagan, P.C. makes your case our focus. Please call us at (312) 427-6163 or contact us online to learn how we can assist you. Our office is located in downtown Chicago.

FAQs about Citizenship & Naturalization in Illinois