Applying for U.S. citizenship, also called naturalization, is a major milestone in your immigration journey. It opens doors to new opportunities—such as voting rights, federal jobs, and the ability to sponsor family members for immigration. However, the process can be complex, and even small mistakes can result in costly delays or denials.

At Martinez Immigration Law LLC, our Kansas City attorneys help clients avoid common pitfalls and guide them through the process with confidence. Below are some of the most frequent errors applicants make and how to prevent them.

Submitting Incomplete or Incorrect Forms

One of the most common issues is filing Form N-400 with missing information or inaccurate details. Even a small mistake, such as forgetting to sign the form or leaving out supporting documents, can delay your application for months.

✅ Solution: Double-check all forms, include every required document, and seek an attorney’s review before submitting.

Not Meeting Continuous Residence or Physical Presence Requirements

To qualify for citizenship, you must show that you’ve lived continuously in the U.S. for at least 5 years (or 3 years if applying through marriage to a U.S. citizen). Extended trips abroad may disrupt this requirement.

✅ Solution: Track your travel history carefully and consult with an attorney if you’ve been outside the U.S. for long periods.

Overlooking Past Legal or Immigration Issues

Any arrests, prior deportation orders, or immigration violations must be disclosed. Failing to mention them—even if they happened years ago—can be considered misrepresentation and may jeopardize your case.

✅ Solution: Be honest and upfront. An attorney can help you address these issues directly rather than risk complications later.

Failing to Prepare for the English and Civics Tests

The citizenship interview includes an English test (reading, writing, and speaking) and a civics test on U.S. history and government. Many applicants underestimate the preparation needed.

✅ Solution: Study the 100 USCIS civics questions and practice your English skills in advance. Attorneys can help ensure you’re ready for your interview.

Not Seeking Legal Guidance

While some applicants succeed on their own, many encounter challenges that could have been avoided with legal representation. An attorney ensures your application is complete, your eligibility is clear, and you’re fully prepared for the interview.

Martinez Immigration Law: Guiding You to Citizenship

Becoming a U.S. citizen is a life-changing step, and it’s too important to risk on avoidable mistakes. At Martinez Immigration Law, we are committed to helping families in Kansas City and beyond achieve their dreams of citizenship.