Marrying a U.S. Citizen: Does It Guarantee You Citizenship?

In 2024, 818,500 people became U.S. citizens. That’s a 12% increase from pre-pandemic levels!

You might wonder: If I marry a U.S. citizen, do I get citizenship? The short answer? No—but it does open a faster pathway.

Unlike other green card holders who must wait five years, spouses of U.S. citizens can apply for citizenship in just three—as long as they meet continuous residence, physical presence, and good moral character requirements.

But here’s the catch: paperwork errors, missed deadlines, or legal missteps can slow things down—or even derail the process.

That’s why understanding each step, potential pitfalls, and how to stay on track is key to securing your future as a U.S. citizen.

Let’s break it all down—clearly, simply, and without the legal jargon. Here’s everything you need to know about naturalization through marriage.

Disclaimer: While we strive to provide clear and accurate information, this article is for general guidance only and should not be taken as legal advice. Immigration rules can be complex and subject to change. For personalized advice tailored to your situation, we always recommend consulting a qualified immigration attorney.

Marrying a U.S. Citizen and the Path to Citizenship: Maria’s Journey

For many couples, marrying a U.S. citizen comes with more than just love—it raises important questions about immigration and legal status.

Do you become a U.S. citizen by marriage? Not automatically, but it does create a faster path.

To make sense of what it actually takes, let’s follow Maria, who just married her U.S. citizen spouse.

Like many, she’s eager to build a life together and secure her future.

But the process isn’t as simple as getting married—she must meet strict eligibility requirements, complete legal paperwork, and avoid common mistakes.

The benefits of marrying a U.S. citizen include a shorter naturalization timeline, but the journey comes with challenges.

Maria’s experience reflects what thousands of couples go through, and her steps can help you stay on track, avoid delays, and move closer to U.S. citizenship.

Let’s follow her journey.

Chapter 1: What It Takes to Be Eligible for U.S. Citizenship

Maria’s Courtly-certified marriage was her first step toward naturalization, but marrying a U.S. citizen doesn’t mean automatic citizenship.

She still needs to meet strict eligibility requirements before applying.

Who’s Eligible?

✅ A Legally Recognized Marriage: She needs a valid marriage certificate and, if applicable, divorce or annulment papers from past marriages.

✅ Three Years of Permanent Residency: Unlike other green card holders who must wait five years, Maria can apply in just three years, provided she has lived with her spouse the entire time.

✅ Continuous Residence & Physical Presence: She must have lived in the U.S. for three years, spending at least 18 months physically present in the country.

✅ Good Moral Character: Any criminal history, visa overstays, or misrepresentation could impact her eligibility.

✅ Proof of a Real Marriage: To show her marriage isn’t just for immigration, Maria must submit:

• Joint tax returns
• Bank statements with both names
• A shared lease, mortgage, or bills
• Health or life insurance policies listing her spouse

One of the key benefits of marrying a U.S. citizen is the ability to apply for naturalization sooner than other green card holders, reducing the standard wait time from five years to three.

Avoid These Pitfalls:

🚩 Paperwork Errors – A misspelled name, missing signatures, or incorrect dates on Maria’s marriage certificate or green card application could delay or even jeopardize her process. Double-check all documents before submission.

🚩 Lack of Evidence of a Real Marriage – Simply being married isn’t enough. If Maria and her spouse don’t have strong proof—like shared tax returns, insurance policies, and lease agreements—immigration officials may suspect marriage fraud.

🚩 Extended Time Outside the U.S. – Staying abroad for six months or more without proper documentation could restart Maria’s residency clock. She should apply for a Reentry Permit if she needs to travel for extended periods.

🚩 Unpaid Taxes or Financial Issues – U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) considers financial responsibility part of “good moral character.” Tax debts, unpaid child support, or financial fraud could cause problems.

🚩 Not Preparing for the Citizenship Interview – Even if Maria meets all requirements, a poor interview could lead to delays or rejection. She should practice answering common naturalization questions, be ready to discuss her marriage, and bring all required documents.

A common misconception is: “Does marrying a U.S. citizen make you a citizen?” The reality? Marriage alone isn’t enough—you must still meet residency, financial, and moral character requirements.

Chapter 2: The Paper Trail to U.S. Citizenship

Many people wonder, do you become a U.S. citizen by marriage alone?

Nope—marriage is just step one.

Before applying for U.S. citizenship, a spouse must get a Green Card, meet residency requirements, and pass the naturalization process.

So, what happens when an American marries a foreigner?

Maria assumed her journey would be simple, but reality hit when she started her paperwork marathon. From securing a spousal visa to filing for permanent residency, every form mattered.

Step-by-Step Guide to U.S. Citizenship Through Marriage

Here’s a simple guide to help you through your citizenship process.

Step 1: File Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative)

What it does: Proves the marriage is real and establishes the relationship between the U.S. citizen and their non-citizen spouse.

📌 Maria’s Checklist:

✅ Proof of spouse’s U.S. citizenship (passport, birth certificate, or naturalization certificate).
✅ Marriage certificate confirming a legal union.
✅ Proof of name changes (if applicable).

💰 Fee: $625 (online) / $675 (paper)

‍⏳ Processing Time: 7.5 to 15 months

Step 2: File Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status)

What it does: Converts a non-citizen’s status to a lawful permanent resident (Green Card holder).

📌 Maria’s Checklist:

✅ Current visa + proof of lawful entry.
✅ Two passport photos + government-issued ID.
✅ Medical exam report (Form I-693)—now required at filing.

💰 Fee: $1,440 (includes biometrics)

⏳ Processing Time: 8 to 14 months

Step 3: File Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization)

What it does: The final step toward becoming a U.S. citizen.

📌 Maria’s Checklist:

✅ Proof of three years of marriage (joint tax returns, lease, shared assets).
✅ Green Card (showing three years of LPR status).
✅ Proof of continuous U.S. residence.

💰 Fee: $725 (includes biometrics)

⏳ Processing Time: 8 to 14 months

Did You Know?

USCIS now grants a 36-month Green Card extension while processing renewals to prevent legal status issues.

Chapter 3: The Hidden Hurdles of Naturalization (And How to Overcome Them)

Maria had everything in order—or so she thought.

Then came a Request for Evidence (RFE) from USCIS. They needed more proof that her marriage was real. A small hiccup, but one that could delay everything if not handled correctly.

Here’s how Maria tackled it—and how you can, too.

Common Roadblocks (And How to Get Past Them)

If you marry a U.S. citizen, do you get citizenship right away?

As we’ve seen, not quite—applicants must successfully complete the Green Card process and meet all USCIS requirements before applying for naturalization.

Here are some common struggles along the way:

🚩 Requests for Evidence (RFEs)

USCIS may ask for more proof if:

• Your marriage evidence is weak (no shared finances, lease, or assets).
• Your name is inconsistent across documents.
• You have gaps in residency proof.

Fix it fast: Respond quickly with additional evidence—affidavits, joint bills, photos, and travel records.

🚩 Proving a Bona-Fide Marriage

A marriage certificate isn’t enough. You need real-life proof:

✅ Joint bank accounts and tax returns.
✅ A shared lease, mortgage, or utility bills.
✅ Photos, messages, and travel records showing your relationship over time.

Make it easy: Keep records updated and accessible before USCIS even asks.

🚩 Processing Delays

USCIS backlogs mean applications can take longer than expected.

Stay ahead: Double-check documents before submitting and monitor your case status regularly.

Maria’s Strategy: Turning Setbacks into Success

When Maria got her RFE, she didn’t panic. She acted fast:

✅ Gathered More Proof:

• Affidavits from friends and family confirming her marriage.
• Additional financial records like joint insurance and utility bills.
• Personal records (photos, messages, travel history).

✅ Tracked USCIS Timelines: She set reminders for deadlines and checked her case status regularly.

✅ Avoided Extended Travel: To keep her continuous residence intact, Maria limited trips abroad to under six months.

Beware! Travel Can Put Your Application at Risk

❌ Over 6 Months? USCIS may question your residency status.
❌ Over 1 Year? Your eligibility clock may reset entirely.

Maria planned her trips carefully—and stayed on track for citizenship.

Hurdles are part of the journey. But with preparation and the right support, you can keep your naturalization process smooth and stress-free.

Chapter 4: U.S. Citizenship Test: Civics and English Requirements

Maria was one step away from U.S. citizenship.

But first? The naturalization interview and tests. Like many applicants, she felt the pressure. Would she remember the answers? Would she pass the English test?

She did—and so can you. Here’s how:

What to Expect: The Two Essential Tests for U.S. Citizenship

📌 Civics Test

✅ Covers U.S. history and government.
✅ Must answer 6 out of 10 questions correctly.
✅ Topics include the Constitution, branches of government, and rights of citizens.
✅ Soon switching to a multiple-choice digital format.

📌 English Test

✅ Tests reading, writing, and speaking skills.
✅ Read a sentence aloud, and write a dictated sentence.
✅ New speaking section requires describing photos.

Maria’s Strategy: How She Aced It

✔ Used USCIS Study Guides – Practiced the 100 Civics questions and took mock tests.
✔ Brushed Up on English – Read aloud daily and wrote sample sentences.
✔ Took Mock Interviews – Answered common questions like:

• “Why do you want to become a U.S. citizen?”
• “What does the Constitution do?”
• “Who is the current President?”

Inside the Interview: What Happens on Test Day?

• Application Review – The USCIS officer checks your paperwork.
• English Test – Basic reading, writing, and speaking check.
• Civics Test – Answer 6 out of 10 questions correctly.

Who’s Exempt?

• If you’re 50+ years old and a permanent resident for 20+ years, you can take the Civics test in your native language.
• But everyone must take the Civics test—no marriage exemptions!

Myth Alert: "Marrying a U.S. Citizen Means You Can Skip the Civics Test"

Nope! Unless you meet age and residency exemptions, you must take the test—married or not.

Chapter 5: One Ceremony Away – Your Final Step to U.S. Citizenship

Maria had done it—she filed the paperwork, passed the interview, and now one final step stood between her and U.S. citizenship: the Oath Ceremony.

Maria’s Citizenship Journey: Key Milestones

✅ Filed Forms I-130 & I-485 – Marriage-based immigration status approved.
✅ Completed Biometrics – Fingerprints and photo taken.
✅ Passed Naturalization Interview & Tests – Civics and English.
✅ Received USCIS Approval – Green light for citizenship.

🏛 Last Step: The Oath Ceremony!

The Oath Ceremony: Where You Become a U.S. Citizen

Once her application was approved, Maria received her Notice of Naturalization Oath Ceremony (Form N-445) from USCIS.

Remember: Missing the ceremony without notifying USCIS could delay or cancel your citizenship.

At the ceremony, she:

✔ Surrendered her Green Card: No longer needed.
✔ Completed a Final USCIS Check: Confirmed no recent travel, legal, or status changes.
✔ Took the Oath of Allegiance: The moment she officially became a U.S. citizen.

Can’t attend? Notify USCIS immediately to reschedule—skipping without a valid reason could jeopardize your application.

What’s Next? Maria’s First Steps as a U.S. Citizen

Apply for a U.S. Passport – Her first official proof of citizenship. She applied immediately at a post office.

Register to Vote – A new right! Many oath ceremonies provide voter registration on-site.

Update Official Records – Maria updated her citizenship status with:

• Social Security Administration (SSA): Best to wait 10 days for USCIS records to update before visiting an SSA office.‍
• State ID/Driver’s License: Some states require proof of citizenship for renewal.

The Reality of a U.S. Green Card Sponsorship

Maria had made it—she was a U.S. citizen. But for her spouse, the journey was just beginning. Sponsoring a Green Card comes with big benefits—but also serious commitments.

Here’s what every sponsor needs to know.

The Perks of Sponsoring a Spouse

1. No More Distance: A Green Card means living together in the U.S. without visa restrictions.

2. Work, Travel, and Build a Future: No job restrictions. No reapplying for visas. Just freedom and stability.

3. Stronger Communities & Economy: Immigrants bring skills, diversity, and innovation, boosting both families and businesses.

The Responsibilities That Come With It

1. Financial Sponsorship (Form I-864) – You must financially support their spouse until one of the following happens:

• They become a U.S. citizen
• They work 40 qualifying quarters (10 years) under Social Security
• They leave the U.S. permanently
• They pass away

2. No Backing Out: Divorce? Bankruptcy? Your sponsorship obligations don’t go away.

3. Income Requirements May Increase – Check USCIS Guidelines for the latest income thresholds, as financial sponsorship requirements may adjust yearly.

Maria’s Game Plan: Staying Ahead

✔ Met Sponsorship Income Requirements – She ensured she could financially support her spouse.
✔ Tracked Every USCIS Deadline – Missing an interview or medical exam could derail the Green Card process.
✔ Stayed Updated on Immigration Policies – Laws change—Maria made sure she knew the latest.

Your Turn: Start Your Path to U.S. Citizenship

Maria did it… and so can you.

She tackled the paperwork, passed the tests, and took the oath. Now, she’s a U.S. citizen.

It wasn’t always easy, but it was worth it.

Maria now has the freedom to live, work, travel, and vote without restrictions. She can build a future with her spouse, knowing that they are secure.

The process takes time and patience, but with the right guidance, you can make it happen, too.

It all starts with one essential step: a legally recognized U.S. marriage certificate.

With Courtly, couples can get married 100% online, receiving a U.S.-issued marriage certificate valid for immigration.

Take the first step today!

Maria made it happen. Now, it’s your turn.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. If I marry a U.S. citizen, do I get citizenship immediately?

No, marriage to a U.S. citizen does not grant automatic citizenship. Instead, it gives you a faster pathway to naturalization.

You must first obtain a marriage-based Green Card, live in the U.S. as a permanent resident for at least three years, and meet all continuous residence and moral character requirements before applying for citizenship through Form N-400.

2. What are the biggest mistakes that can delay citizenship through marriage?

Many applicants assume that marriage alone is enough, but these mistakes can delay or derail the process:

• Applying before meeting the three-year residency requirement.
• Failing to prove a bona fide marriage—USCIS requires strong evidence, including joint bank accounts, leases, tax filings, and affidavits.
• Extended travel abroad—Trips longer than 180 days may disrupt continuous residence.
• Criminal history or prior immigration violations—These can lead to delays or denials.

3. Does marrying a U.S. citizen help if I am undocumented?

It depends on how you entered the U.S. If you entered legally (with a visa) but overstayed, you may be able to adjust your status without leaving the U.S.

If you entered without inspection (unlawfully), you may need to apply for a waiver and go through consular processing in your home country—risking a potential re-entry ban if you’ve been in the U.S. unlawfully for more than 6 months.

4. What if my U.S. citizen spouse passes away before I get citizenship?

If your spouse passes away before you obtain your Green Card, your application may be denied unless you qualify under the Widow(er) Petition Exception by filing Form I-360 within two years of their death.

If your spouse passes away after you get your Green Card, you can still apply for citizenship under the three-year rule, provided you were married and lived together before their passing.

5. Can I lose my Green Card if my marriage ends in divorce?

If you are still on a conditional Green Card (valid for two years) when the divorce happens, you will need to file Form I-751 with a waiver and prove your marriage was entered into in good faith.

If you already have a 10-year Green Card, divorce does not affect your status, but you must wait five years instead of three to apply for naturalization.