Citizenship Matters: How Becoming a U.S. Citizen Protects You and Your Family

If you’ve been a green card holder for the required amount of time, now is the time to take the next step—especially with the U.S. elections coming up next November. Becoming a U.S. citizen is one of the most powerful steps you can take to protect your future and fully participate in American life

One of the most important rights that comes with citizenship is the right to vote. Only U.S. citizens can cast a ballot in national elections, which means only citizens can help shape the future of immigration policies, healthcare, education, and more. If you want your voice to be heard and your values represented, citizenship gives you that power.

In 2024 818,500 people became citizens through the naturalization process, but that number is 7% less than the previous year.

→Below are some of the eligibility requirements

1. Lawful Permanent Resident status for 3 or 5 years
2. Physical presence and continuous residence in the U.S.
3. Good moral character
4. Ability to speak, read and write basic English
5. Knowledge of U.S. history  and government (civics test)

→Some benefits don’t stop at the ballot box. Here are some other key advantages of becoming a U.S. citizen:

✅ Protection from deportation — Once you’re a citizen, you cannot be removed from the U.S.
✅ Priority in family immigration — Citizens can petition more family members and with shorter wait times.
✅ A U.S. passport — One of the strongest passports in the world, allowing for easier international travel.
✅ Access to more jobs and government benefits — Some careers and benefits are only available to citizens.

→Below is what you would need to do to apply. All of this can be complicated and an immigration attorney can help want you through this process

1. File N-400
2. Do a Biometrics appointment
3. USCIS interview
4. English and civics test
5. Await the decision
6. Oath ceremony

→Challenges and delays that can happen

1. When applying for citizenship, all other immigration relief you applied for may be reviewed. It is important that you are prepared for any questions about previous immigration relief.
2. Using the wrong forms or incomplete documentation with submission can cause your case to be delayed or denied
3. Your travel history will be reviewed to determine your lawful presence in the United States. You will need to be able to explain and travel history

Having an experienced immigration attorney will help prepare you for all the challenges that may come with your case and could help prevent them from happening to begin with.

At Godoy Law Office, we’ve seen how life-changing this process can be. We also know that many people wait too long—and miss the chance to vote or protect their families. The citizenship process can take several months, so if you start now, you may still have time to become a citizen before the next election. We are a nationwide practice with clients all over the US. Talk to the experienced immigration attorneys at Godoy Law Office at 630-345-4164

U.S. Citizenship FAQs

❓ How long does it take to become a U.S. citizen?
⏳ It typically takes 8 to 14 months, depending on your case and your local USCIS office.

❓ Do I need to speak perfect English?
🗣️ No! You only need to demonstrate a basic ability to read, write, and speak in English. Some people may also qualify for exemptions.

❓ Can I vote with a green card?
🚫 No. Only U.S. citizens can vote in federal elections.

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