Legal Question in Immigration Law in California

There are many details missing from your question. First, he needs to be a permanent resident before he can apply for citizen. Second, speaking Spanish is irrelevant to becoming a U.S. citizen. "What will it take" covers a lot of ground, e.g., the USCIS has the conditions that be met for citizenship on its website for the N-400 which must be filed. If this person came to the U.S. without a lawful entry, then they might be inadmissible and unable to obtain permanent residency. You need a good immigration lawyer.

This is a very serious matter because we are talking about a persons citizenship and livelihood and not some contract dispute, etc. Contact your local County BAR Association for a good immigration attorney. English is not a requirement to become a citizen. In my opinion, he has a very good chance of becoming a citizen with the little information I know; however, I recommend an immigration attorney and probably one that only handles immigration matters (i.e. is an expert in that field of the law).

If he originally entered without inspection ("illegally "), then his spouse will need to file form I-130 & a "provisional waiver" (of unlawful presence ). If approved, he would have to leave the country & apply for his immigrant visa at the U.S. Consulate in his home country of nationality. For this type of case, he may want to consider speaking with an experienced immigration attorney (watch out for notarios or attorneys who charge too much!).

Please call me at (800) 750-1828 to discuss your case and matters. Kind regards, RDM