Naturalization and Citizenship Attorney in Waco, Texas
Become a U.S. Citizen
The Last Step of the Journey, Done Right
Naturalization is the process by which a lawful permanent resident becomes a U.S. citizen. Citizenship brings the right to vote, a U.S. passport, protection from removal and the ability to petition for more family members. For many of our clients it is the moment years of work finally pay off.
The N-400 application looks simple, but it asks about every trip you have taken, every address and job, your tax history and any contact with the police. Answering carelessly can delay your case or, in some situations, put your green card at risk. Abogados Vasquez Law Firm reviews your full history before anything is filed, prepares a complete application and gets you ready for the interview and civics test, in English or Spanish.
What We Handle
How We Help With Naturalization
Eligibility Review
Most applicants must have held a green card for five years (three if married to and living with a U.S. citizen), be physically present in the United States for at least half that time, live in the state where they apply, show good moral character and pass English and civics tests. We confirm each requirement before you pay a filing fee.
Travel and Residence Issues
Trips abroad of six months or more can break the continuous residence requirement, and long absences raise questions at the interview. We review your travel history, calculate your physical presence and, where needed, prepare evidence that you kept your home in the United States.
Good Moral Character
Arrests, unpaid taxes, child support issues and certain other events affect eligibility, even if they happened years ago. We obtain court records, explain how USCIS is likely to view them and advise whether it is wise to apply now or wait.
Application Preparation and Filing
We prepare Form N-400 with supporting documents, file online or by mail, and track your case through biometrics and the interview notice. If USCIS requests more evidence, we respond.
Interview and Test Preparation
The naturalization interview covers your application line by line, plus English reading, writing and speaking and a civics test. We walk you through the questions, provide the official study materials and practice with you so there are no surprises. Applicants 50 or older with 20 years as a resident, and 55 or older with 15 years, may test in Spanish.
Certificates and Oath
After approval you attend an oath ceremony and receive your Certificate of Naturalization. We explain next steps, including applying for a U.S. passport and updating your Social Security record.
Our Process
What to Expect
- 1
Consultation
We review your immigration history, ask the questions that matter and tell you honestly which options may be available to you.
- 2
Case Preparation
We assemble your application, supporting evidence and translations, and prepare you for biometrics and interviews.
- 3
Filing and Follow-Through
We file with USCIS or the immigration court, track deadlines, respond to requests for evidence and keep you informed at every step.
What to Expect During the Naturalization Process
After filing, USCIS sends a receipt notice and a biometrics appointment. Several months later you receive an interview notice for the field office, typically San Antonio or Dallas for Waco residents. At the interview an officer reviews your application, asks about any changes since filing and administers the tests. Many applicants receive a decision the same day and are scheduled for an oath ceremony within a few weeks. Processing times vary by office and year; we check the current estimate for your case and keep you informed.
Your Waco Immigration Attorney
Work With an Attorney Devoted to Immigration Law
Esmeralda Sosa SerratosImmigration Attorney
Esmeralda Sosa Serratos is a Texas-licensed immigration attorney with over a decade of experience dedicated to representing immigrants and their families, with a particular focus on removal defense, immigration litigation, and complex immigration matters.
Where We Serve
Serving Waco and Central Texas
Our office is on Lake Air Drive in Waco, a short drive from downtown, Baylor University and the McLennan County Courthouse. We serve clients across Waco, Bellmead, Woodway, Hewitt, Robinson, Lorena, McGregor, West and the surrounding communities of McLennan County, as well as Temple, Killeen, Hillsboro and the rest of Central Texas. Consultations are available in person, by phone or by video, in English or Spanish.
Waco Office
Talk to an Attorney Today
Call our Waco office and speak with our bilingual team in English or Spanish.
Se Habla Español
- Hours: Mon–Fri: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Office: 1215 Lake Air Dr, Waco, TX 76710
Get directions
FAQ
Naturalization FAQs
When can I apply for citizenship?
Generally five years after becoming a permanent resident, or three years if you obtained your green card through a U.S. citizen spouse and are still married and living together. You may file up to 90 days before the anniversary date.
Do I have to give up my current citizenship?
U.S. law does not require you to renounce your original citizenship, but your home country's rules may differ. Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador, for example, generally allow dual nationality. We can discuss your specific situation.
What if I do not speak English well?
Most applicants must pass English reading, writing and speaking tests. Exemptions apply for applicants 50 or older with 20 years as a resident and 55 or older with 15 years, who may take the civics test in Spanish. Medical exceptions also exist.
Can a criminal record stop me from naturalizing?
It depends on the offense and when it happened. Some records make you ineligible for a period of time; a few make you permanently ineligible or could even affect your green card. It is important to review your record with an attorney before applying.
How much does naturalization cost?
USCIS charges a filing fee for the N-400, with a reduced fee for some low-income applicants and a fee waiver for others. Fees and case expenses are explained in a written agreement before anything is signed.
Contact Us
Start With a Consultation
Whether you were hurt in an accident, need help with an immigration matter or are facing a criminal charge, the first step is a conversation. Tell us what happened, and we will explain your options in plain language, in English or Spanish.
Call (254) 900-7947 Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and talk with our bilingual team. Se habla español.
Call Us Today
(254) 900-7947Call (254) 900-7947Se Habla Español
- Hours: Mon–Fri: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Office: 1215 Lake Air Dr, Waco, TX 76710
Get directions