Naturalization is the process through which an immigrant becomes a United States citizen. If you are considering becoming a United States citizen, there are several requirements that must be met throughout the application process. A Will County citizenship and naturalization lawyer can help you navigate the application process.
The experienced immigration attorneys at Godoy Law Office understand that becoming a U.S. citizen can be complex, and we are here to guide you through the naturalization process. Contact us today for a consultation.
To become a United States citizen through naturalization, several requirements must be met. The applicant must be at least 18 years of age. Typically, it is required that the person seeking citizenship has held a green card for a minimum of five years or three years if the applicant is married to a U.S. citizen. The person must have been a resident of the state where they intend to apply for citizenship for a minimum of three months. Good moral character is also required.
The applicant must take and pass an English proficiency test and a civics test. The individual must be willing to perform military service if called upon to do so. The applicant will also complete an interview as part of the process.
If granted citizenship, the person will attend a naturalization ceremony and take the Oath of Allegiance. A seasoned Will County citizenship and naturalization attorney can discuss all requirements needed to become a U.S. citizen during an initial consultation.
If an applicant meets the requirements to become a U.S. citizen through the naturalization process, a specific procedure must be followed. An Application for Naturalization must be completed and filed. A biometrics appointment will be held in which the applicant will be fingerprinted and photographed, and a background check will be conducted. An interview will be held, and the English and civics tests will be taken. After the interview, a decision will be made regarding the applicant’s citizenship status.
While the process can be overwhelming, a knowledgeable citizenship and naturalization lawyer in Will County can guide applicants through the process to ensure that no step is missed.
There are many benefits that U.S. citizen enjoys. If granted citizenship, the person can remain in the United States as a citizen and will become eligible for a U.S. passport to travel internationally. A citizen can vote and hold elected positions. Taking part in the judicial system by serving as a juror is another benefit. A citizen has a strong argument against deportation and is provided rights under the Constitution.
As a citizen, the person has other options to petition for family members to come to the United States on a permanent basis. They are able to sponsor family members–including parents, siblings, spouses, and children–for green cards. Citizens can also benefit from various governmental assistance programs.
Consulting a qualified Will County attorney can help applicants fully understand all the benefits of U.S. citizenship.
Becoming a citizen of the United States can be a lengthy process, but it offers numerous benefits once the status is obtained. If you are considering applying for citizenship, it is essential to have a local Will County citizenship and naturalization lawyer by your side.
The attorneys at Godoy Law Office provide personalized legal assistance to those navigating the naturalization process. We will help explain the law and ensure that you understand your rights. Our team will listen to your needs and help develop a strategy to move forward. Call now to get started.
