United States citizenship has certain benefits that no other legal status has.  Citizens can vote in elections.  Citizens cannot be deported and do not have to renew their status or worry about losing their status. Citizens can sponsor family members faster and can sponsor parents and siblings.  Citizens are eligible for elected positions and federal jobs.

How Do I Become a Citizen?

Birth in the United States

Most people born in the United States are citizens at birth.   Some people born abroad to a U.S. citizen parent may automatically be citizens as well.

Birth Abroad

Individuals born abroad may be citizens if at least one of their parents is a citizen who lived in the United States for a specific period of time.  The requirements depend on the law that was in effect at the time of the child’s birth.  The law has changed over the years so it is a good idea to talk with a knowledgeable immigration attorney to see if you qualify.

Deriving Citizenship Through Parents

A child may automatically derive citizenship through a parent after birth.  This usually happens when a family comes to the United States and one or both of the parents become citizens when the child is under the age of 18.

Naturalization

Individuals who are 18 or older may become citizens through naturalization.  To naturalize, you must:

• Have been a permanent resident for five years (or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen)
• Have 5 years of continuous residence in the United States before applying (or 3 years if married to a U.S. Citizen)
• Have been physically present in the United States for at least 30 months out of the 5 years before applying (or 18 months of the 3 years before applying if married to a U.S. citizen)
• Reside continuously in the Unites States during the application process
• Pass the civics and English tests, or qualify for an exemption or exception
• Have good moral character

Some people who have been convicted of crimes, even something minor, do not qualify for citizenship and may lose their permanent resident status if they apply. If you have been convicted of a crime, even if it was expunged or taken off your record, you should speak with an immigration attorney before you apply.

Hire an Experienced Citizenship and Naturalization Attorney

When you hire me, I will prepare and submit your application to immigration, correspond with immigration on your behalf, prepare you for your naturalization interview and attend the interview with you. My goal in every case is to make the process as simple and straight forward as possible for you. With a flat fee and monthly payment plan, you know the cost up front. Schedule your consultation by calling me at 651-278-9858 or click here to schedule online.