Citizenship and Naturalization

Citizenship

Becoming a United States citizen can be a lengthy and difficult process. You may be just starting your journey to become a United States citizen or you may have already applied and been denied. Because the process can be overwhelming for you to handle alone, it is important that you hire an experienced immigration law firm that has your best interests in mind – one that will be dedicated to serving you efficiently throughout the entire naturalization process.

At Siri & Glimstad LLP, we have represented hundreds of clients in Citizenship proceedings. Our motto is simple – Dedication, Efficiency, and Commitment to the end goal.

Naturalization

Naturalization is the process in which those born outside of the country become United States citizens.

Becoming a naturalized citizen guarantees that you will no longer be subject to immigration laws. Instead, you will solidify the same rights as a United States born citizen including, but not limited to, voting, obtaining employment, and being protected by all laws under our Constitution.

Obtaining United States Citizenship

Per U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) requirements, one may  be eligible for naturalization if they meet the  following criteria:

• 18 years or older at the time of application filing
• Lawful permanent resident for 5 years or 3 years if married to a United States citizen
• Continuous residential and physical presence in the United States
• The ability to read, write, and speak basic English
  Good moral character
• Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of United States history and government
• Demonstrated loyalty to the United States Constitution
  Willingness to take the Oath of Allegiance

There are modifications to these requirements for candidates who are over a certain age. Those modifications include:

• Modification of the English language requirement for those 50 years of age or older if the immigrant has been a permanent resident of the United States for at least 15 years.
• Modifications of the United States History examination for those 65 years of age or older.

Process of Naturalization

First, you must receive your green card.

Following receipt of your green card, you must wait at least 3 to 5 years before you can apply for naturalization. Factors such as marital status and continuous physical presence, among other things, will determine the length at which you must wait.

The process is then initiated by filing a N-400 form  with the USCIS. From there, the USCIS will require you to complete a biometrics screening. Biometrics screenings include the collection of fingerprints, photographs, and a signature.

You will then be required to complete an interview. At the interview, you will be asked questions regarding your truthfulness about wanting to become a naturalized citizen and you must pass the Civics and History test.

Following that interview, your Naturalization application will either be granted, denied, or continued. If your application is continued, you may be asked to obtain additional documentation.

If your application is granted, you will then be asked to take the Oath of Allegiance.

At last, you have made it through the process! Congratulations, you are now a United States citizen, free to enjoy all that our Declaration of Independence stands for – Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness.

The Importance of Hiring an Immigration Lawyer for Citizenship and Naturalization

Handling this process on your own can come with downfalls. Most immigrants that attempt to become a naturalized citizen on their own get denied. Typically, this occurs from mis-documentation or not meeting the required eligibility standards. An experienced immigration lawyer will ensure that you are eligible for naturalization and will complete all paperwork and documentation for you. They will also ensure that you are fully prepared for the naturalization interview and collect and prepare all necessary paperwork for you for that interview. In the event of a denial, an immigration lawyer will step in as your Advocate to dispute the denial on your behalf and/or correct any issues in the filings.

If you or a loved one are in need of Citizenship and Naturalization assistance, the Lawyers at Siri & Glimstad are here to help. We understand the importance of trust and efficiency throughout this process and are committed to being your strongest Advocate.

If you or a loved one need help with any issues concerning immigration, please contact us. Hablamos español.