Why Now Is the Time for Green Card Holders to Consider Naturalization
With immigration policy once again in flux under a new administration, lawful permanent residents (green card holders) may face increasing uncertainty regarding their long-term status in the United States. In response, many are weighing the benefits of taking the next step: U.S. citizenship through naturalization.
Recent changes, ongoing political debates, and backlog pressures at U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) make this a pivotal moment to act.
The Evolving Immigration Landscape
Since early 2025, new executive actions and internal USCIS policy updates have signaled stricter scrutiny of immigration benefits and a renewed focus on enforcement priorities. For green card holders, this can translate to longer application wait times, more thorough reviews, and a greater risk of complications.
In its 2024 year-end report, USCIS noted that naturalization applications had increased by nearly 18% compared to the previous year—largely due to growing concerns about policy shifts and backlogs USCIS, 2024 Annual Report. The average processing time for naturalization cases now exceeds 10 months in many jurisdictions Boundless Immigration, 2024.
Risks of Delaying Naturalization
While permanent residency allows individuals to live and work in the U.S., it doesn’t offer the full legal protections of citizenship. Green card holders remain subject to immigration law and risk the following:
- Deportation: Even minor legal infractions, resolved years ago, may lead to removal proceedings American Immigration Council, 2022.
- Travel Restrictions: Extended stays abroad may prompt USCIS to question your intent to maintain permanent residency.
- No Voting Rights: Immigrants contribute to the economy and communities, but without citizenship, they cannot influence immigration policy through the ballot box.
The Benefits of Naturalization
U.S. citizenship unlocks broader protections and new opportunities, including:
- Voting Rights: Citizens have a direct say in national and local elections.
- Protection from Removal: Citizenship cannot be revoked under normal legal conditions.
- Family Reunification: U.S. citizens can sponsor a broader range of family members.
- Access to Federal Jobs and Benefits: Many government roles and assistance programs are restricted to citizens.
A study by the National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER) found that naturalized immigrants experience a 6-11% increase in earnings post-naturalization, and they are more likely to hold secure employment NBER, 2023.
Start Early to Avoid Delays
Due to growing demand and procedural complexities, naturalization can take time. Applicants must complete Form N-400, attend biometric appointments, pass the English and civics exam, and complete an interview. Given USCIS’s current workload, delays are expected to continue throughout the 2025 fiscal year.
Green card holders who initiate the process now are more likely to avoid possible future restrictions or policy changes that could affect eligibility.
Trusted Guidance Matters
Navigating the naturalization process isn’t always straightforward—especially for individuals with complex immigration or legal histories. Working with a legal team that understands the nuances of immigration law can help prevent mistakes, avoid delays, and ease anxiety.
Zhang-Louie PLLC has a strong track record of guiding clients from permanent residency to U.S. citizenship, even in challenging cases. Their experience navigating shifting legal environments and representing clients before USCIS has earned the trust of green card holders nationwide.
For anyone who has been eligible for naturalization but hesitant to begin, now is the time to take informed action and secure your future.
