Don’t lose your place in Line for US Citizenship (Naturalization)
Protect Your Path to U.S. Citizenship While Working Abroad
At Law Offices of Monica Jara-Aguirre, we help green card holders preserve their naturalization eligibility when working overseas through Form N-470—preventing costly interruptions to your U.S. citizenship timeline.
Why File Form N-470?
- Without it, extended time abroad (especially 6+ months) can:
- Reset your "continuous residence" clock for naturalization
- Force you to wait longer to apply for citizenship
- With N-470, approved overseas work counts toward your 5-year (or 3-year) residency requirement
Who Qualifies?
- You may be eligible if working abroad for:
- U.S. government (including contractors)
- American companies in international trade
- Recognized research institutions
- Religious organizations (special rules apply)
- Common professions: Engineers, scientists, missionaries, corporate executives, NGO workers.
Key Requirements
- For Most Applicants:
- Must have 1+ year of continuous U.S. residence after getting green card
- Must return to U.S. for 1+ uninterrupted year before naturalizing
- Special Rule for Religious Workers:
- No prior U.S. residence requirement
- Can file before or after going abroad
Step-by-Step Process
1. File Before Leaving the U.S.
- Submit Form N-470 + supporting documents
- Fee: $355 (no waivers)
2. Also Apply for Reentry Permit (Form I-131)
- Protects your green card status (N-470 doesn’t do this!)
- Fee: $575 + biometrics
3. Work Abroad Without Penalty
- Approved time abroad won’t break continuous residence
4. Return to U.S. to Naturalize
- Complete final 1+ year in U.S.
- Then file Form N-400 for citizenship
Required Documents
- For All Applicants:
- Copy of green card
- Employer letter (details job/duration/qualifying org)
- Proof of U.S. physical presence (if required)
- For Religious Workers:
- Evidence of ordination/religious role
- Letter from religious organization
Common Mistakes We Fix
- Filing after leaving the U.S. →Must apply while physically in the U.S.
- Missing I-131 reentry permit→ Risk losing green card
- Switching employers abroad→ May need to refile
- Returning too late → Must complete final U.S. residency year
Why Choose Our Firm?
- 20+ Years Immigration Experience
- Religious Worker Specialists
- Global Client Support (remote consultations available)
- Bilingual Team (English/Spanish)
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. 1 : Can I file N-470 if already abroad?
No—must apply before departure (except religious workers).
Q. 2 :Does N-470 let me naturalize faster?
No, but it prevents delays by protecting your timeline.
Q. 3 :How long is N-470 valid?
Covers one assignment—new filing needed if employer/role changes.
Q. 4 : Do you charge for consultations?
We denounce with righteous indignation and dislike men who are so beguiled and demoralized by the charms.
Q. 5 : What should I bring to my first consultation?
Bring any relevant documents related to your case (court papers, notices, contracts, identification, etc.) and a list of questions or concerns you have. This helps us better understand and assess your legal situation.
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