Applying For A Us Citizenship

There are certain requirements you must fulfill to qualify for United States citizenship. You must:

1) be a permanent resident for 5 years or 3 years if qualifying through marriage,

2)not be on probation at the time of your naturalization interview,

3)be at least eighteen years of age,

4) be a resident of the state or district in which you are living in for three months,

5) have good moral character for the last five years, and6) be able to read, write, and speak basic English.

In addition, there are residency requirements. You must not have disrupted permanent residence for the last five years (three years if married to an American spouse), been physically present in the country for one-half of the five years (eighteen months for the spouse of an American), be able to pass a test on United States history and government, and swear a loyalty oath to the United States.

If you meet all the requirements, you can begin the process of becoming a US citizen. Generally, most people seek help from an immigration attorney or specialist. You must submit an N-400 application, and biometrics will be required. If correctly filed you will receive an interview and eventually take a loyalty oath.

After this, you will receive a Naturalization Certificate. This will give you a number of benefits including:

1) the ability to vote in US elections,
2) the ability to serve on a jury,
3) you will be able to obtain a US passport,
4) you will be able to help relatives immigrate faster,
5) you will be able to run for and hold public office, and
6) you will be eligible for certain government jobs.

You will no longer be required to renew your green card and citizenship cannot be taken away unless it was obtained fraudulently.

Generally, it will take between a year to fifteen months from the time you apply to the time you become a citizen. You will receive your interview after six to eight months.

Currently, the history and civics test can only be taken orally at the naturalization interview. At the naturalization interview, applicants must demonstrate that they can speak, write, and read English. Exceptions are made for those over fifty who are still required to study questions of history and government in their own native language. Certain exceptions are also made for individuals with disabilities which prevent them from learning English. Individuals with disabilities must complete an additional N-648.

If your child is under eighteen and you become a United States citizen, they may also be eligible for citizenship. In order to qualify your child must be a permanent resident and fulfill other requirements.

If you have had a criminal record or previous immigration violations, your case will be more complicated. It is advisable for all individuals seeking naturalization to speak with and hire an attorney.