US CITIZENSHIP
If you meet the requirements of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) or have parents that are US Citizens, you can become a US Citizen yourself. There are many advantages on being a US Citizen versus being a Legal Permanent Resident. One of them is that you will not need to worry about the requirements that apply for maintaining your legal permanent residency (i.e. not traveling abroad for more than six months). Another advantage of being a US Citizen is that you will have the right to vote in national, state, and local elections.
There are different ways to become a US Citizen. In most cases, you can obtain US Citizenship if you are a Lawful Permanent Resident for 5 years or more. If you were born outside the United States to a US Citizen parent, you can acquire US Citizenship through your parents if you meet certain requirements. Also, if you are serving or have served in the US Armed Forces you may be eligible to become a US Citizen under special provisions of the INA.
In general, applicants for US Citizenship should file Form N-400 and the evidence required by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to start the process. Once USCIS has reviewed your application, you will need to attend an interview where you will answer questions about your Form N-400, and you will take the English and Civics Tests. Some persons might be eligible to be exempted of the English and Civics Tests or to take the Civics Test in their native language.
Circumstances like paying taxes and previous criminal history might affect your eligibility to become a US Citizen. Please consult an attorney if you have questions about how these can affect your application. Proving good moral character is crucial for the success of your application and an attorney can help you determine the effects of any previous criminal history in your case.
When your application is granted, you will receive a notice to take the Oath of Allegiance. Depending on USCIS availability, you might be able to participate in an oath ceremony on the same day as your interview. Once you attend the oath ceremony and take the Oath of Allegiance, you will receive your Certificate of Naturalization before leaving the ceremony site. Congratulations on your US Citizenship!
At Kairos Law, PLLC we are committed to helping you with this process in the most efficient and transparent manner.
