1. Nationality Application Washington D.C. | Case Background and Residency History
This matter arose from a long term lawful residence in the United States based on marriage to a U.S. citizen, with all immigration steps handled through federal agencies serving Washington, D.C.
The client’s immigration record reflected continuous lawful status, stable marital residence, and compliance with all USCIS reporting requirements.
Lawful Entry and Adjustment Through Spousal Sponsorship
The client, a British national, first entered the United States after marrying a U.S. citizen who was domiciled in Washington, D.C.
Her initial admission was followed by adjustment of status to lawful permanent resident pursuant to INA § 245(a), based on an immediate relative petition under INA § 201(b).
USCIS records confirmed uninterrupted residence and a bona fide marital relationship throughout the qualifying period.
After meeting the applicable residence and physical presence standards, she was granted permanent resident status without conditions.
2. Nationality Application Washington D.C. | Legal Uncertainty Regarding Eligibility
Despite having obtained lawful permanent residence, the client hesitated to pursue a nationality application due to incorrect assumptions regarding post green card residency requirements.
This hesitation posed a risk of unnecessary delay despite full statutory eligibility.
Misinterpretation of Naturalization Timing Requirements
The client believed she was required to hold permanent resident status for at least one additional year before applying for U.S. citizenship.
This misunderstanding is common among applicants who are unfamiliar with the distinction between general naturalization rules and spousal exceptions.
Under INA § 316(a), a five year permanent residence period is generally required, but this provision does not apply to all applicants.
Because the client remained married to and residing with a U.S. citizen spouse, a different statutory framework governed her case.
3. Nationality Application Washington D.C. | Statutory Analysis Under Federal Immigration Law
A detailed legal review confirmed that the client qualified for immediate filing under the spousal naturalization provisions of federal law.
All legal conclusions were grounded exclusively in the Immigration and Nationality Act and corresponding federal regulations.
Eligibility Under INA § 319(a) Spousal Naturalization
INA § 319(a) permits a lawful permanent resident married to a U.S. citizen to apply for naturalization after three years of continuous residence, provided the marital union remains intact.
The client satisfied the continuous residence, physical presence, and good moral character requirements outlined in 8 C.F.R. §§ 319.1 and 316.10.
Importantly, the statute does not require a minimum period of permanent residence beyond the three year marital residence threshold.
Based on this analysis, a nationality application was prepared and filed immediately through the USCIS jurisdiction serving Washington, D.C.
4. Nationality Application Washington D.C. | Filing Strategy and Approval Outcome
The application was submitted with comprehensive documentation addressing residence, marital continuity, and statutory eligibility.
No requests for evidence or procedural delays were issued during adjudication.
USCIS Adjudication and Citizenship Approval
USCIS reviewed the nationality application under standard federal naturalization procedures.
The applicant successfully completed biometrics, interview, and civics examination requirements in accordance with 8 C.F.R. § 335.
Because eligibility was clearly established at the time of filing, the application proceeded without complication.
The client ultimately took the Oath of Allegiance and was granted U.S. citizenship, concluding the matter successfully.
06 Jan, 2026
