Eligibility for Naturalization can be determined by carefully reviewing an individual’s present status. Questions to consider: Is the person at least 18 years old? Has the individual been a lawful permanent resident for 3-5 years, depending on the circumstances of the individual? Has there been an extended period of time spent out of the country? Does the individual have good moral character? Is there an ability to read, write, and speak basic English unless qualifying for an exemption? Lastly, is the person in the military?

Support of the United States Constitution  is required! A ceremony is held where an oath of allegiance to the United States ceremony is given.

There are additional considerations to discuss with an attorney in order to prepare for this very important process for U.S. Citizenship.

Steps that will unfold include preparation of Form N-400, Application for NaturalIzation; biometrics appointment, if applicable, completion of the interview, receipt of written decision, and lastly receipt of notice to take the Oath of Allegiance.

Sometimes an individual may have already acquired citizenship or derived it automatically from their parents at birth. Factors such as which parent was a citizen, if the child was legitimated by certain dates, when the parent naturalized, age and marital status may be relevant, physical presence, and other matters need to be considered. The applicant has the obligation to prove if they are eligible for acquired citizenship.

U.S. Citizenship brings important rights and responsibilities and is an incredible accomplishment for those individuals who have sacrificed much to attain it. Former permanent lawful residents who Naturalize can vote, a right that is at the core of our country’s government.

United States Citizens can also petition for relatives and receive immediate availability of Immigrant Visas if the family members are immediate relatives. These relatives, once admitted or adjusted to Lawful Permanent Status, can work, obtain driver’s licenses with proper testing, obtain social security numbers, and begin to assimilate into American culture while adding to the diversity of the country. Other relatives may fall into preference categories whose applications are processed through a combination of current priority dates, filing dates, and eligibility to file for Adjustment of Status.