Citizenship and Naturalization

Applying for Citizenship

CitizenshipThe last step in the Immigration process is Citizenship also called Naturalization. Once you become a citizen you receive amazing benefits such as being able to vote and helping family members immigrate to the United States. To become a citizen you need to fulfill the eligibility requirements, fill out all documents and take a test. It sounds easy but there are certain things to look out for when applying for citizenship.

The most important part in starting the process to become a citizen is the applicant must be a Legal Permanent Resident. How one obtains their Green Card does not matter but without the Green Card, one cannot apply to be a citizen for citizenship. If the applicant does have a Green Card then they must make sure they satisfy the other requirements.

Eligibility for applying for Citizenship:
  • -Legal Permanent Resident at least 5 years (3 year marriage exception)
  • -At least 18 years old
  • -Continuous residence in the United States for 5 years
  • -Live within the United States Customs and Immigration Services District for at least 3 months prior to applying
    -Demonstrate you are a person of “Good Moral Character”

Once you are sure you fulfill all those requirements you can now be eligible to apply for citizenship. I always recommend to consult with a lawyer for any immigration matter because of its importance. The applicant’s history that can make them ineligible to apply for a citizenship. If you have ever been arrested, you need to consult with an immigration attorney to discuss your situation.,

After you are sure you are eligible to apply, you must fill out the Naturalization application with its supporting documents. USCIS requires a filing fee to submit the application to one of its service centers. Once the application is received they will schedule you for an interview with a USCIS officer. At the interview the officer will go through your entire application and documents to make sure everything is satisfactory. The officer has the discretion to grant or deny your application. That is why it’s so important to consult an attorney and make sure the application is done correctly.

The applicant will also have to take a test at the USCIS office. The test is used to determine if the applicant is well enough versed with the history and ways of the country. The Naturalization tests covers the following areas:

Citizenship Exam Topics:
  • -Read, Write and Speak basic English
  • -Basic understanding of the United States Constitution
  • -Basic understanding of US history and civics

After you pass this, then the USCIS officer will review your file to decide whether to grant or deny you citizenship application.

At our law office we take great pride in our work and help you every way we can. We understand how important your citizenship is and want to help you. We are here to answer all your questions so that you feel confident in your application. Contact us today to discuss your case.

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