One of the ways that someone can become a permanent resident of the United States is if they marry someone that is already a citizen. As long as the individual is over the age of 18, has lived in the United States at least three years before filing for citizenship, has a good grasp on the English language and American history, and is of good moral character, then they should face no problems becoming naturalized citizens. Unless, of course, there is a problem with their marriage certificate. One of the most common ways that those seeking naturalization through marriage are halted is when there is an error on their marriage license.

What to Know About Marriage License Amendments

Making errors on a marriage license can happen to anyone, but when someone is seeking to become a permanent resident of the United States, each of these mistakes will be examined with a fine-tooth comb. Luckily, there is a way for such a document to be amended if an error is discovered.

Seeking to amend a marriage license? Here's how:

1. Check with the rules of the state that issued the marriage license. Many of the changes that can be made afterwards may be restricted to correcting errors, misspellings, or filling in sections that were previously left blank.
2. Get the form needed to correct the marriage license by visiting the city or county clerk. Someone at the office should be able to fill it out to avoid any further problems.
3. Complete the forms with the updated information, provide the documentation required, and pay a small fee.

Correcting a marriage license is always quicker is you do so right after it was filed. Since three years must pass before naturalization can begin, many mistakes will not be caught until then. If one spouse is seeking to become an American citizen, it may be worthwhile to double check the marriage certificate and submit amendments for any errors shortly after being married.