Naturalization is the process of becoming an American citizen for an immigrant from another country. Not all immigrants are eligible for citizenship; an immigrant has to have been a green card holder for at least 3 or 5 years and meet certain eligibility requirements as well as follow specific processes. These requirements and processes are outlined below.
Determining Whether You Already Have Citizenship
Even though an immigrant was not born in the US, there are circumstances when he/she acquired citizenship at birth or shortly after birth. Similarly, an immigrant could also have derived citizenship from one or both of his/her parents.
Citizenship Eligibility Requirements
The eligibility requirements that a green card holder should fulfil before he/she can apply for citizenship are the time spent as a green card holder, the time spent by the immigrant in the US physically, maintenance of residence in the US, any criminal history as well as demonstrating good moral character. If you meet these eligibility requirements, you can apply for citizenship. In order to be granted citizenship, an immigrant must also be able to pass an English language exam and a civics exam. Certain immigrants can be excused from the English language and civics exam. Once an immigrant meets these requirements, he/she can follow these general steps:
Application Preparation
The citizenship application involves a thorough and complicated process involving filing a Form N-400 following its instructions meticulously. The application process requires many supporting documents like passport photographs, a copy of the permanent resident green card, proof of marital status, and other documents depending on the immigrant’s personal circumstances. The process can be long and complicated, and most people benefit from working with an experienced immigration lawyer who can guide them through the process. Our office handles many cases where an immigrant has tried to go through the process on their own and been unsuccessful. An experienced lawyer can assess your eligibility with their knowledge of the law and experience with United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) officers.
Biometrics Appointment
Once your application has been filed, and USCIS accepts it, you will receive a receipt notice followed by a letter scheduling you for a biometric appointment that will take place at your local USCIS Application Support Center. The officers at USCIS will take your fingerprints, photographs, and a signature. USCIS uses the information obtained to complete a background check on you. There are cases where USCIS may request additional information by issuing you a Request for Evidence.It is critical that you submit a response to the request for evidence. Once it has been received, you will get a notification for the date and time for your interview.
The Citizenship Interview and Test
At the citizenship interview, a USCIS officer will review your application, interview you, test your English and civics knowledge and decide if you qualify to be a US citizen. The interviewing officer may seek clarification on your answers and ask about your application. USCIS publishes study guides of the required tests that you can study before the test. Many local libraries and community organizations also help immigrants by providing English language classes.
The Naturalization Ceremony
Once you are successful at your interview and the tests, you will get a letter to schedule you for your naturalization ceremony. At this ceremony, you will take an oath of allegiance to the US and exchange your green card for the certificate of naturalization, which will prove your status as an American citizen.
Final Word
The process to obtain US citizenship can be long and complicated. USCIS will go back and review your entire immigration history up until the date of your interview. With the right guidance from an immigration lawyer, you can prepare your application successfully and increase your chances of success with USCIS. It is best to have an experienced immigration lawyer walk with you and hold your hand throughout the process.
The Law Office of Anshu Karki is your right immigration partner for your citizenship process. With experienced and skilled lawyers, the chances of your success significantly improve. You can also seek our help with refiling a previously denied Form N-400 application should we determine that you qualify. Contact us today for a representation in your case.