Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the International Welcome Center, and how can you provide free services?

The International Welcome Center is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering the foreign-born in the greater Akron area. We receive grant funding and donations from individuals to help income-eligible Akron residents prepare and submit their naturalization applications for free. All of our naturalization services are currently provided remotely, allowing us to serve you no matter where you are in the Akron area.

How do you provide services?

After reviewing your screening form, we will contact you and send you a packet of forms and worksheets that you must complete electronically and return to us. We will work with you to prepare your forms and review them over a video call before you submit them to USCIS.

Is the information I submit secure?

Your information is private and protected. It will not be shared with anyone without your permission. The International Welcome Center is not affiliated with the government and does not work with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Do I have to mail my citizenship application to USCIS?

You can or the International Welcome Center can mail it for you, after completing your application, you must submit it to USCIS to apply. The International Welcome Center will guide you through the process and can submit the application on your behalf. We also do not share any information about your application with USCIS.

How does the process work?

Once your screening is completed and you work with us to complete your forms, we will schedule a time to do a final review of your application. If you encounter any difficulties during the process, you can reach out to our office, and we will assist you. Additionally, if you are unable to afford the USCIS application filing fee, we can discuss your situation to determine whether you are eligible for a fee waiver.

What are the citizenship eligibility requirements?

You must:

• Be at least 18 years old at the time of filing the naturalization application
• Be a legal permanent resident (have a “Green Card”) for at least 5 years, unless you are married to a U.S. citizen, in which case it is at least three years
• Have lived for at least 3 months in the state or USCIS district where you will apply
• Demonstrate continuous residence in the United States for at least 5 years immediately preceding the date of filing Form N-400 (or 3 years, if married to a U.S. citizen)
• Show that you have been physically present in the United States for at least 30 months out of the 5 years immediately preceding the date of filing your application (or 18 months, if married to a U.S. citizen)
• Be able to read, write, and speak basic English
• Have a basic understanding of U.S. history and government
• Be a person of good moral character
• Demonstrate an attachment to the principles and ideals of the U.S. Constitution

I’ve been arrested or detained by police or immigration before. Can I apply?

Some criminal offenses can prevent you from becoming a citizen and might lead to your green card and legal permanent residence being revoked. We discuss criminal history as a part of the screening process and can provide advice about whether to proceed.

What if I have other questions?

Call 234-229-9267 to have them answered.