Citizenship & Naturalization Lawyer

Applying for U.S. citizenship is very exciting, but it can also be confusing and intimidating. An associated lawyer with the Fresh Start Immigration Law would be proud to explain the complexities of the United States immigration system so that your naturalization process goes as smoothly as possible.

Our associated immigration lawyers can walk you step by step along your path to citizenship, from explaining naturalization requirements to helping you prepare for tests and interviews. Call today for a free case evaluation.

How Naturalization Can Lead to Citizenship

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) lists ten steps you need to complete before you can gain citizenship. These steps can be summarized as follows:

• Determine your eligibility. For example, if you have access to birthright citizenship through a parent, you do not need to go through naturalization.
• Submit required materials and paperwork. This may include a Form N-400, photographs, and biometric test results. You will also need to complete an English test and a civics test.
• Complete your interview. On the same day you take your tests, you will also be interviewed by a USCIS officer. They will ask you about your Form N-400 to determine if there are inconsistencies between your submitted materials and, ultimately, if you are eligible for citizenship.
• Wait for a response. You may or may not receive a decision on the same day as your interview. If USCIS denies your application, our citizenship & naturalization lawyers can figure out why and help you try again.
• Take an Oath of Allegiance. If your application is accepted, you will attend an oath ceremony. After taking the Oath, you will officially be a citizen.

Seeking Exceptions During the Naturalization Process

Most applicants have to go through all of the steps outlined above, but some people can ask for exceptions based on extraordinary circumstances. For instance, if you have a medical condition or a disability that would make it extremely difficult to pass one of the tests, our associated lawyers can ask that this requirement be waived.

Do You Qualify for Naturalization and Citizenship?

The associated naturalization lawyers with the Fresh Start Immigration Law can help you collect evidence that shows you are eligible for the naturalization process. This requires us to prove the following points:

• You have been a permanent resident for a certain number of years, depending on your immigration status.
  • For example, if you are a lawful permanent resident and have been so for at least five years, you could be eligible for naturalization.
• You are at least 18 years old.
• You have not been convicted of serious crimes.
• You have at least basic knowledge of the English language.
• You have been an upstanding permanent resident who makes no trouble and contributes to the community.

These qualifications may differ depending on your circumstances, and there are exceptions and accommodations for some of these general requirements. Call the Fresh Start Immigration Law today and learn more about becoming a citizen through a free consultation.

Why Become a U.S. Citizen?

Citizens get rights that permanent residents and others do not. Once you are a citizen, you will be allowed to:

• Vote
• Run for office
• Apply for certain federal jobs
• Sponsor more relatives for a Green Card
• Get a passport
• Travel abroad without needing special documents, except for your passport

In addition, your citizenship will never expire or need to be renewed. Whereas Green Card holders have to renew their cards every ten years, citizenship is for life.

Is the Naturalization Process Difficult?

It can be. The government is very selective about who it allows to become a citizen, and they may reject your application if:

• You did not submit the correct forms and materials
• They believe you do not meet all of the requirements
• You fail to appear at interviews or appointments without giving advance notice
• You fail the citizenship tests more than once

It is not always possible to tell ahead of time if your case will be very difficult or not. Let our associated immigration attorneys for citizenship guide you and help you avoid making unnecessary errors.

Our Associated Lawyers Can Tell You Everything About Citizenship

At the Fresh Start Immigration Law, we recognize how complicated the U.S. immigration system is. Our associated naturalization attorneys can help. Not only can we manage all of the steps outlined above, we can make time to answer all of your questions, including:

What Is the Difference Between Naturalization and Citizenship?

Naturalization is the process you have to go through to become a U.S. citizen if you were not born in the United States and do not have access to birthright citizenship.

U.S. citizenship is a type of immigration status granted to those who were born here, are the children of legal citizens, or successfully complete the naturalization process.

What Can You Expect With the U.S. Citizenship Test?

You will have to take two different tests. One will assess your English skills, and the other will assess your knowledge of the U.S. government. USCIS provides study materials to help you prepare for your tests. The English test includes written and oral elements, while the civics test is completely oral (spoken outloud).

If you fail one or both of the tests, you get one chance to retake the failed portion. This can be stressful and will lengthen the naturalization process, but do not panic: we can help you set up an appointment for a retest.

How Long Does the Naturalization Process Take?

That depends on your case. Straightforward applications with no complicating factors may be processed faster than applications with mistakes or information that requires deeper investigation. All cases typically take months, if not longer, to process.

Our associated immigration lawyers for naturalization can support you throughout this emotional process. We can keep an eye on your application’s status and do everything possible to achieve your citizenship goals.

Let the Fresh Start Immigration Law Assist You With Citizenship and Naturalization

Our associated citizenship & naturalization lawyers take pride in helping people like you adjust your immigration status, stay or reunite with loved ones, and attain citizenship. Call the Fresh Start Immigration Law to get a free consultation about how we can assist you with your case.