The journey toward U.S. citizenship often begins with two intertwined processes: immigration and naturalization. At Di Martino Law Group, we understand that navigating visa applications, green card requirements, and citizenship tests can feel overwhelming. This comprehensive guide breaks down every step, from family-based immigration to oath of allegiance, ensuring you have the knowledge to move forward confidently.

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Understanding Immigration vs. Naturalization

While the terms are frequently used together, immigration and naturalization represent distinct phases. Immigration refers to the act of entering and establishing permanent residency in the United States through lawful permanent resident status. Naturalization, conversely, is the legal process by which a foreign national becomes a U.S. citizen after meeting eligibility requirements.

Di Martino Law Group specializes in both areas, helping clients transition seamlessly from adjustment of status to certificate of citizenship.

Key Pathways to Permanent Residency

Family-Based Immigration

Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens — spouses, unmarried children under 21, and parents — face no numerical limits on immigrant visas. Other family preference categories include adult children and siblings, subject to annual caps monitored through the Visa Bulletin.

Employment-Based Immigration

Professionals with extraordinary ability, multinational executives, or advanced degrees may qualify for EB-1, EB-2, or EB-3 visas. The PERM labor certification process often precedes I-140 petition filing.

Diversity Visa Lottery

Each year, 50,000 diversity visas are allocated to nationals of countries with historically low immigration rates to the United States. Winners must still meet admissibility grounds.

The Naturalization Process Step-by-Step

1. Determine Eligibility Most applicants need five years of continuous residence as a lawful permanent resident (three years if married to a U.S. citizen). Good moral character and basic English proficiency are mandatory.
2. File Form N-400 The Application for Naturalization requires detailed biographical information, residency history, and supporting documents. Di Martino Law Group reviews every submission to prevent RFE (Request for Evidence) delays.
3. Biometrics Appointment USCIS collects fingerprints for FBI background checks.
4. Citizenship Interview and Exam Officers evaluate civics knowledge (U.S. history and government) and English language skills — reading, writing, and speaking. Practice resources are available through the USCIS website.
5. Oath of Allegiance Ceremony Upon approval, new citizens receive their Certificate of Naturalization during this formal event.

Common Challenges and Solutions

• Criminal History: Even minor offenses can trigger deportability concerns. Waivers of inadmissibility may apply in certain cases.
• Extended Absences: Travel exceeding six months risks abandoning permanent resident status.
• Name Changes: Request legal name changes during naturalization proceedings.

Di Martino Law Group has successfully resolved thousands of complex cases involving removal proceedings, asylum applications, and DACA renewals.

Special Considerations for Military Members

Active-duty personnel and veterans qualify for expedited naturalization under INA 329 and 328. Di Martino Law Group proudly assists those who’ve served with VAWA petitions and parole in place options for military families.

Preparing for the Citizenship Test

The civics test consists of 10 questions drawn from 100 possible items. Applicants must answer six correctly. English proficiency is assessed through conversation and simple sentence reading/writing exercises.

Pro Tip from Di Martino Law Group: Use official USCIS study materials and schedule mock interviews with experienced immigration attorneys.

Dual Citizenship and Renunciation

The United States permits dual citizenship, though some countries require renunciation of prior nationality. Di Martino Law Group advises clients on tax implications and expatriation consequences.

Recent Policy Changes Affecting Naturalization

USCIS increased naturalization fees effective April 1, 2024. Fee waivers remain available for qualifying low-income applicants. The agency also expanded online filing options for Form N-400.

Why Choose Di Martino Law Group?

With decades of combined experience in immigration law, our attorneys have secured green cards, defended against deportation, and guided countless individuals through citizenship ceremonies. We offer:

• Personalized case strategy
• I-485 and I-751 expertise
• Appeals before the Board of Immigration Appeals
• Multilingual support

Start Your Journey Today

Whether you’re filing your first visa petition or preparing for the oath ceremony, Di Martino Law Group stands ready to help. Schedule a consultation to discuss adjustment of status, consular processing, or naturalization eligibility.

The information provided reflects current USCIS policies as of November 2025. Immigration laws change frequently — professional legal guidance is essential.