If you are a green card holder, you may have questions about the process of becoming a citizen. Call our law firm today for answers you can trust.
For immigrants to America who have lived here for years and who hold a green card, being granted citizenship through the naturalization process is often a long-held dream. While getting citizenship can certainly be challenging, those who are eligible and satisfy the requirements can turn their dream into a reality. Consider this basic overview of the process of citizenship in America and call our skilled immigrant lawyers at the office of Ozment Law, PLC for a consultation that is specific to you.
1. Determine Eligibility and Apply for Naturalization
The first step in the process of becoming a citizen through naturalization is to determine whether or not you are eligible for naturalization and, if you are able to apply for naturalization. In order to be eligible for naturalization, an applicant must have lived in the U.S. as a lawful permanent resident for at least five years (three years if married to a U.S. citizen), and must also be at least 18 years of age, be of good moral character, be able to read and write English, have an understanding of the U.S. Constitution and government, and after the application is approved, take an oath of allegiance to the U.S.
The application you will need to file is the N-400, Application for Naturalization form. You will need to pay the fees associated with this form. The total fee, including the biometric fee, is $725.
2. Complete Biometrics and Interview
After you submit your application, the next step will be to complete the biometrics screening. This involves having your fingerprints and photograph taken; this data will then be used to conduct a thorough background check. Once you are cleared, you will be scheduled for an in-person interview.
During the interview, you will be questioned by an official from the U.S. Customs and Immigration Services (USCIS). An applicant should be prepared to answer questions about their application and background, their general character and time spent in the U.S., and their understanding of the U.S. government and the Constitution.
3. Take the Tests
After the interview process, the next step is to take the civics and English tests. The point of this is to assess the applicant’s ability to understand English, as well as the applicant’s understanding of the U.S. government and Constitution.
4. Take the Oath
If an applicant passes all of the above, they will receive a decision from USCIS indicating that their application for citizenship through naturalization has been granted, continued (which means that additional evidence is needed in order to make a decision), or denied. If the application is granted, then the final step is scheduling a time to take the oath of allegiance. After taking the oath of allegiance at a naturalization ceremony, then citizenship by naturalization will be awarded.
Call Our Tennessee Immigration Lawyers for Help
Filling out your application and preparing for the interview and tests can be overwhelming. For the guidance and support you need during the naturalization process, call our experienced immigration lawyers directly today.