Understanding the Naturalization Process
Becoming a U.S citizen is an essential accomplishment in the life of immigrants and lawful permanent residents in the country. When you become a U.S citizen, you will be eligible to vote in the U.S. elections, help family members migrate to the country, travel with a U.S. passport, and enjoy all other citizenship rights. However, understanding the eligibility requirements and the naturalization process is crucial to make your citizenship application feel more manageable.
At M Mathew Law Firm, PLLC, I enjoy giving knowledgeable and experienced guidance to clients in naturalization-related matters. As an understanding Texas immigration law attorney, I’m available to discuss your individual circumstances, educate you about the naturalization process, and help file your citizenship application. My firm is proud to serve clients across Dallas, Grand Prairie, Lewisville, Garland, and Irving, Texas.
The Naturalization Process
Naturalization can be described as the process through which a foreign national or immigrant living in the United States or a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) becomes a U.S. citizen. Becoming an American citizen offers numerous benefits, including exercising your voting rights, bringing family members to the country, applying for and obtaining a U.S. passport, sitting on a jury, and much more. Here are the steps involved in the naturalization process:
Determine Your Eligibility
The first step is determining whether you are eligible to become a U.S. citizen through naturalization. Here are some of the eligibility requirements:
You must be at least 18 years at the time of the naturalization application.
You must have been a lawful permanent resident for the past three or five years (depending on your application category).
You must be able to speak, read, and write basic English.
You must have lived physically and continuously in the United States.
You must show good moral character.
You must demonstrate knowledge and understanding of U.S. history and government.
You must demonstrate loyalty to the principles of the U.S. Constitution.
You must be willing to take the Oath of Allegiance.
Complete Your Application Forms
Complete and submit your naturalization application forms online or through paper.
Attach two photographs of yourself that meet the requirements of the U.S. immigration service.
Provide all necessary evidence and supporting documentation.
Pay applicable filing fees.
Once you file your application forms, you will receive a confirmation notice from the USCIS that your application has been received. After that, you can do the following:
Go for your biometrics appointment.
Take the U.S. Naturalization Test.
Prepare yourself for the personal interview.
If you were successful with the naturalization test and personal interview, you could proceed to take the Oath of Allegiance. However, the moment you submit your naturalization application, you must remain in the country from the date you filed to the naturalization period.
The Naturalization Interview
The naturalization interview is an important part of your U.S. citizenship application. During your naturalization interview, the immigration officer will:
Put you under oath.
Review your application forms and supporting documentation.
Ask you different questions about your background and application.
Ensure that you attend the personal interview and other USCIS appointments at the scheduled date and time and with all your documentation. An experienced Texas citizenship attorney can prep you intensively for your personal interview and increase your chances of a successful outcome.
The Naturalization Tests
In addition, you will be required to take the naturalization test. This comprises two components – English and Civics tests.
English Test: During the English test, you are required to show an understanding of the English language. Also, you must demonstrate your ability to speak, write, and read basic English.
Civics Test: During the civics test, the USCIS will ask you some vital questions about American history and government.
A knowledgeable attorney can provide you with study materials and coach you extensively for the naturalization tests.
Legal Advocacy Every Step of the Way
U.S. immigration laws are ever-changing, and applying for citizenship through naturalization often involves a lot of complexities. Therefore, if you are a lawful permanent resident who wants to become a U.S. citizen, consulting with a practiced immigration attorney is important for clear guidance and to help you navigate crucial decisions.
For more than a decade, I have walked my clients through the complex procedures involved in citizenship and naturalization applications. As your legal team, I can help you understand the procedural requirements for your naturalization application. Also, I will determine your eligibility and help complete and submit your forms.
Also, I will help prepare and file a solid and valid application and coach you extensively for the naturalization test and personal interview. Using my broad knowledge, I will direct you through the legal phases involved in the naturalization process and help ensure a seamless and successful citizenship application.
Contact my firm – M Mathew Law Firm, PLLC – today to arrange a consultation with a trusted citizenship attorney. I have the trained legal advice you need in your U.S. citizenship application and ensure that the system treats you justly. My firm is proud to serve clients across Dallas, Grand Prairie, Lewisville, Richardson, Garland, and Irving, Texas.