How to get citizenship is a question of many immigrants. The immigration reform drafters are also discussing paths for citizenship for undocumented workers. However, no matter what they will decide, to get citizenship, one have to first obtain a green card or permanent resident status. Provided, of course, the laws will not be drastically changed in the nearest future.
The only way to get citizenship without obtaining permanent resident status first, is by being born on the US territory or by being born to or being adopted by the US citizens (provided other conditions for automatic citizenship are met).
The most common way for an immigrant to obtain U.S. citizenship is through a process called naturalization. Naturalization can be commonly obtained after three years being in the permanent resident status if the green card was based on marriage; or after five years in all other cases.
The applicant can submit application (form N-400) within 90 days of the anniversary permitting the application. If the green card itself has expired before the application is submitted, then the applicant has to renew the green card before filing N400. However, if the green card will not expire at the time of the application, but shortly after, the applicant does not have to renew it, unless he/she intends to travel overseas.
Citizenship process normally takes about 6 months, but can be delayed if the applicant misses/reschedules appointments; has criminal record; failed to submit all required documents; or traveled abroad on numerous occasions for a prolonged periods of time.
Even though the citizenship application form looks simple, in the situation of prior denials, criminal convictions, arrests, and unpaid taxes, the applicant is advised to seek help of an Immigration attorney before submitting the documents. One may call 917-885-2261 for a free 10 minutes phone consultation.