Becoming a U.S. Citizen - 12th Edition by Ilona Bray (Paperback)

About the Book

The most complete book available to green-card holders who hope to apply for naturalized U.S. citizenship. Helps them figure out whether their case can be safely handled without an attorney, when and how to submit the N-400 application form and supporting paperwork, and how to prepare for the USCIS interview and exams. Great primer for new attorneys or legal assistants, too.

Book Synopsis

All-in-one resource for successfully applying for U.S. citizenship.

Written by an experienced attorney, this guide offers everything green card holders (lawful permanent residents) need to know in order to succesfully apply for naturalized U.S. citizenship. Includes information on whether would-be applicants meet the strict eligibility criteria (minimum time spent living in the U.S., good moral character, and knowledge of English and U.S. civics), how to prepare and submit Form N-400 and other paperwork, and how to pass the exams and interview. Special focus on dealing with difficulties and bureaucratic delays.

Review Quotes

2025 INDIES Award finalist--Foreword Reviews

"The best, most accurate explanation of immigration laws for nonlawyers thus far." Immigration Law Today.

"Becoming a U.S. Citizen: A Guide to the Law, Exam & Interview is a practical, reader-friendly guide to making the transition from green card holder to naturalized U.S. citizen, thereby earning benefits including the right to vote, the opportunity to apply for certain federal jobs, faster immigration for family members, protection against deportation, and more. Chapters discuss how to discern whether one is eligible for citizenship, the risks and rewards of applying, how to fill out application forms, preparing for the citizenship exam as well as interviews, and much more. It should be noted that the publisher's website nolo.com includes a wealth of resources for prospective American citizens, such as legal updates to Becoming a U.S. Citizen and in-depth profiles of immigration lawyers in one's area. While Becoming a U.S. Citizen cannot substitute for the counsel of a trained attorney, it is a "must-read" and worthy of the highest recommendation, even (especially!) if one retains the services of a lawyer." Library Bookwatch, The Midwest Book Review

"The clearest, most accurate explanation of immigration laws for nonlawyers thus far."American Immigration Lawyers Association

From the Author: For attorneys who work with immigrants, one of the most rewarding parts of the job is seeing clients' joy at becoming U.S. citizens. It represents so much--years of effort getting through the immigration bureaucracy, acceptance into U.S. society, new opportunities to participate in the democratic process, and ability to petition for immediate or close family members. It's also security against deportation. Although green card holders (lawful permanent residents) have a right to remain in the U.S. and work here, they can be removed on various grounds, and are subject to the latest whims of Congress or the federal government. That makes this a particularly important time for citizen seekers to carefully examine their eligibility and avoid mistakes when applying, which this book helps readers do.