How to Become a U.S. Citizen in 2026: Chicago Guide
Becoming a U.S. citizen is one of the most significant legal steps an immigrant can take. For green card holders in Chicago and the surrounding Chicagoland area, the naturalization process involves more scrutiny in 2026 than in prior years. Understanding the current requirements, steps, and policy changes before you file is essential. This guide covers what you need to know.
Who Qualifies for U.S. Citizenship in 2026?
To apply for naturalization, you must generally meet all of the following requirements:
Lawful Permanent Resident Status
You must hold a valid green card before applying for citizenship.
Residency Waiting Period
- Most applicants must have held their green card for at least 5 years
- If you are married to and living with a U.S. citizen, the waiting period is reduced to 3 years, provided your spouse has been a U.S. citizen for that entire period
Continuous Residence
You must have maintained continuous residence in the United States throughout the qualifying period. Extended trips abroad, generally six months or more, can interrupt continuous residence and reset your eligibility clock.
Physical Presence
You must have been physically present in the United States for at least half of your qualifying period, 30 months out of 5 years, or 18 months out of 3 years.
State or District Residence
You must have lived in the state or USCIS district where you are filing for at least 3 months before submitting your application.
Age
You must be at least 18 years old to apply on your own behalf.
Good Moral Character Requirements in 2026
USCIS requires that you demonstrate good moral character throughout your qualifying period. In 2026, USCIS significantly tightened this review. Officers now conduct a holistic evaluation that considers positive contributions to American society, not just the absence of negative conduct. Even minor infractions, old arrests, or dismissed charges may trigger a detailed background review. Tax compliance is also scrutinized, unfiled returns or unpaid taxes can delay or derail your application.
English Proficiency and Civics Test Requirements
You must pass an English reading, writing, and speaking test, as well as a civics test on U.S. history and government. The civics test was updated in 2025. Exceptions may apply based on age, length of residency, or medical condition. Contact our office for guidance on your specific situation.
Support for the U.S. Constitution
You must be willing to support and defend the Constitution of the United States and take the Oath of Allegiance.
The U.S. Naturalization Process: Step by Step for Chicago Applicants
Step 1 — File Form N-400
The Application for Naturalization is filed with USCIS. As of 2026, the filing fee is $710 online or $760 by paper. You may file up to 90 days before you meet your continuous residence requirement.
Step 2 — Biometrics Appointment
USCIS will schedule a biometrics appointment to collect your fingerprints and photograph for background check purposes.
Step 3 — Naturalization Interview
You will attend an in-person interview at the Chicago Field Office. The officer will review your application, test your English, and administer the civics test.
Step 4 — USCIS Decision
USCIS will approve, continue, or deny your application. If approved, you will be scheduled for an Oath of Allegiance ceremony.
Step 5 — Oath of Allegiance Ceremony
In Chicago, the Oath of Allegiance must be presided over by a federal judge rather than a USCIS officer. Because judicial ceremonies are scheduled less frequently, Chicago applicants should expect an additional 1 to 3 months between approval and the ceremony. You are not a U.S. citizen until the oath is taken and your Certificate of Naturalization is issued.
How Long Does the Naturalization Process Take in Chicago?
Processing times vary significantly by field office and individual case. As of 2026, the Chicago Field Office is reporting a minimum of 9 months, and actual times may be longer depending on case complexity, background review requirements, and current backlog. Always verify current estimates using the USCIS Case Processing Times tool.
2026 USCIS Policy Changes Every Chicago Naturalization Applicant Must Know
Stricter Good Moral Character Review in 2026
USCIS is now conducting more intensive background reviews, including neighborhood investigations in certain cases. Any criminal history, tax issues, or prior immigration violations should be reviewed with an immigration attorney before filing.
Oath Ceremony Cancellations and Delays in Chicago
In 2026, a number of applicants who have already passed their naturalization interview and been approved are having their oath ceremonies cancelled or indefinitely postponed. This is occurring nationally, including in the Chicago area, and is connected to increased vetting requirements. If your oath ceremony is delayed or cancelled without explanation, contact an immigration attorney promptly.
The 39-Country N-400 Processing Hold
Nationals of 39 designated countries face a hold on final adjudication of their N-400 applications, even where the application has been fully processed and an interview completed. If you are a national of one of the affected countries, your case may be delayed at the final decision stage with no announced timeline for resolution. Contact our office to discuss your specific situation.
Work with an Experienced Chicago Naturalization Lawyer
Naturalization may appear straightforward, but errors or omissions in the application can result in delays, denials, or in serious cases, removal proceedings. In 2026, with heightened USCIS scrutiny across the board, having an experienced immigration attorney review your case before filing is more important than ever.
The Law Offices of Azita M. Mojarad, P.C. has assisted clients throughout Chicago and the Chicagoland area with naturalization applications, including complex cases involving travel history, prior criminal matters, and marriage-based eligibility.
If you have questions or need more information about becoming a U.S. citizen or any other immigration matter, contact us today for expert immigration legal services at The Law Offices of Azita M. Mojarad, P.C. by e-mailing us at azita@azitalaw.com or calling 312.641.0771.
