San Francisco, CA immigration attorney Mary Jane Weaver discusses how she helps her clients become U.S. citizens. She assists individuals seeking U.S. citizenship, who generally fall into two main categories. The first group includes those eligible for naturalization, which requires being a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) for at least five years, or three years if married to a U.S. citizen. Many clients in this category have lived in the United States for 15 to 20 years, combining time in non-immigrant visa status and permanent residence, before becoming eligible. She helps these clients by preparing and filing their naturalization applications, guiding them through the requirements, and preparing them for the mandatory interview with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Her role is akin to assisting someone who prefers not to navigate complex procedures alone—ensuring the process is completed accurately and efficiently.

The second group consists of individuals with more complex immigration histories, such as prior arrests or other complications, who seek her guidance to avoid jeopardizing their status when pursuing citizenship. In these cases, she provides careful evaluation and strategic advice, helping clients navigate potential risks and successfully move through the naturalization process.