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Once you have lived in the U.S. as a lawful permanent resident (LPR) for the right amount of time and meet other eligibility requirements, you can be on the path to citizenship. However, some obstacles could make it harder to undergo the naturalization process, which is where a reliable Chicago citizenship and naturalization lawyer could help.

Find out more about the potential barriers to citizenship and how to overcome them when becoming a citizen in the U.S. with the help of our immigration attorneys here at Godoy Law Office.

Eligibility Requirements for Citizenship

To successfully undergo naturalization in the U.S., individuals must meet certain eligibility requirements. For example, you must:

  • Be 18 years old or older
  • Maintain LPR status in the U.S. for at least five years, which is reduced to three years for LPRs married to U.S. citizens
  • Show that you have lived and maintained a physical presence in the country
  • Have good moral character without a history of crimes of moral turpitude
  • Possess basic knowledge of English and civics

With the help of a skilled Chicago citizenship and naturalization attorney, you could ensure you meet all of these requirements. Contact us today to discuss your needs and begin the application process.

How Can a Citizenship Attorney Help?

When applying for naturalization, there are several elements that a naturalization and citizenship lawyer could help applicants in Chicago with, including:

Determining Eligibility

Based on the above criteria, a lawyer could determine whether an individual qualifies for citizenship in the U.S. If the person is ineligible for citizenship, his or her attorney could determine other options to continue to live and work in the U.S., such as renewing a permanent resident card or seeking refugee or asylee status, until he or she is eligible.

In the process, the attorney could provide guidance on how to meet eligibility requirements in the future.

Filing Form N-400 and Supporting Documentation

To apply for U.S. citizenship and initiate the naturalization process, individuals must also complete and file Form N-400, Application for Naturalization. They will also need to provide supporting documents that demonstrate the individual’s eligibility and confirm that all information on the form is accurate and up-to-date.

A lawyer can help prepare and complete this form with all relevant information, while also collecting and organizing supporting documentation to streamline the naturalization process.

Representation During a Citizenship Interview

Before the naturalization process officially ends, applicants must attend an interview with an immigration official, followed by taking an Oath of Allegiance. An attorney could help individuals prepare for questions that officials may ask or even attend the interview to clarify any misunderstandings and ensure officials observe the individual’s legal rights.

Speak With a Chicago Citizenship and Naturalization Attorney

Before you start the naturalization process to become a U.S. citizen, it is important to consult with a Chicago citizenship and naturalization lawyer to discuss your eligibility and effectively prepare your application. Taking the right approach to the process can help maximize your chances of successfully applying for citizenship; alternatively, you may discover that you have other options for living and working legally in the U.S.

Get in touch with our experienced legal team here at Godoy Law Office to find out how we could assist you.

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