Knowledge and Professional Experience

The Naturalization Process

1. Things to Consider

   • Naturalization is the process of becoming a U.S. Citizen.
   • You will need to meet the following requirements before applying for citizenship:
     • Been a Lawful Permanent Resident (green card holder) for at least 5 years (3 years if married to a U.S. Citizen);
     • Lived in the USCIS District for at least three months;
     • Has been physically present in the U.S. for at least half of the five (or 3) year period;
     • Has not been absent from the U.S. for six months or more;
     • A person of good moral character;
     • Has a basic understanding of English;
     • Able to pass a test on U.S. history and government (May be able to be exempted or request a disability waiver); and
     • Believes in the principals of the U.S. Constitution and would take an oath of loyalty to the United States

2. How We Can Help

   • There are many requirements that a Lawful Permanent Resident (green card holder) must meet when applying for naturalization. We recommend seeking experienced legal counsel prior to becoming a U.S. Citizen to avoid any pitfalls in the process.
   • The Law Office of Tanya Fekri can guide you through the naturalization process to ensure that you are indeed eligible for U.S. Citizenship, without putting your status as a Lawful Permanent Resident (green card holder) at risk.
   • Contact our office today to begin your pursuit of US citizenship. Call 425-240-8643 or fill out our contact form on this page.

Disability Waivers/ Exemptions

1. Things to Consider

   • One of the requirements when applying for U. Citizenship is being able to speak, listen, read and write in English and pass a test on U.S. history and government.
   • If you or your love one cannot meet this requirement, you or your loved one may be exempted or eligible for a disability waiver.
   • You may be able to be exempted or request a disability waiver if any of the following applies at the time of filing:
     • You are 55 years old and you have been a Lawful Permanent Resident (green card holder) for 15 years; or
     • You are 50 years old and you have been a Lawful Permanent Resident (green card holder) for 20 years; or
     • You are 60 years old and you have been a Lawful Permanent Resident (green card holder) for 20 years; or
     • You have a physical or mental disability that makes it impossible for you to meet the citizenship requirements.

2. How We Can Help

   • The Law Office of Tanya Fekri can provide experienced and compassionate legal representation and guidance to individuals and families who are in need of a disability waiver or exemption.
   • Our office will work with your primary care physician on the disability waiver process and will represent you or your loved one at his or her N-400 interview.
   • Contact our office today to schedule a consultation regarding the disability waiver or exemption process. Call 425-240-8643 or fill out our contact form on this page.

Fee Waiver

1. Things to Consider

   • The Form N-400, Application for Naturalization is one of the applications that is eligible for a fee waiver.
   • You may request a fee waiver if you fall into one of the three categories:
     • You or a qualified member of your household is currently receiving a means-tested benefit (food stamps, TANF, Medicaid/ Washington Apple Health, SSI, etc.);
     • Your household income is at or below the 150% poverty level at the time you file the Request for Fee Waiver; or
     • You are experiencing a financial hardship that prevents you from paying the filing fee.

2. How We Can Help

   • The Law Office of Tanya Fekri will assist you in determining whether you are eligible for a fee waiver and assist you in gathering the required supporting documentation.
   • Contact our office today to schedule a consultation regarding the citizenship application and fee waiver request. Call 425-240-8643 or fill out our contact form on this page.