Naturalization and Citizenship
Naturalization is the process by which United States citizenship is granted to a foreign citizen or national after the individual fulfills the requirements established by Congress in the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). For a nation that was founded by immigrants, it is notoriously difficult to gain citizenship in the United States, and takes a good deal of patience. However, if you are passionate about becoming a United States citizen and work with a good immigration attorney, you may just be the next US citizen to join this great country.
Qualifying For Naturalization
There are four major ways that you can qualify for naturalization in the United States:
- You have been a permanent resident for at least 5 years and meet all other eligibility requirements
- You have been a permanent resident for 3 years or more and meet all eligibility requirements to file as a spouse of a U.S. citizen
- You have qualifying service in the U.S. armed forces and meet all other eligibility requirements
- Your child may qualify for naturalization if you are a U.S. citizen, the child was born outside of the U.S., the child is currently residing outside the U.S., and all other eligibility requirements are met
*note* You may already be a U.S. citizen and not need to apply for naturalization if your biological or adoptive parent(s) became U.S. citizens before you reach the age of 18.
Applying For Naturalization
There are many advantages to becoming a U.S. citizen, compared to being a permanent resident, including the right to vote. However this is not an easy process and is not given to every individual that applies. There are tests on U.S. history and laws you must take and you must prove you would be a valuable member of society.
To apply for naturalization in the United States you need to fill out form N-400. This is a complicated document and it is recommended that you work with an immigration attorney to fill it out properly.
Get Help and Resources For Your Naturalization Process
As described before there are tests you must take in order to prove you have a firm understanding of the history and laws of the United States. By working with our immigration team you will be guaranteed that you have all the resources and help available to you before you take the test.
Working with an immigration lawyer is the best way to make sure that you have everything you need to become a naturalized citizen. We can provide you with advice on how to fill out the N-400 form, which information is the most valuable to the people that grant citizenship, and give you all the resources to pass your exams.
By applying for naturalization you are committing yourself to the United States, which is no small matter.
