Immigration Lawyer for Citizenship
Form N-400 is the crucial step in becoming a U.S. citizen. It is the final step that brings security, belonging, and new opportunities for you and your family after years of being a permanent resident. Citizenship opens the door to voting, petitioning for additional relatives, and enjoying rights that only U.S. citizens hold. Reaching this stage takes commitment and careful preparation, but the rewards make the long and stressful process worthwhile.
For permanent residents (green card holders), the road to citizenship goes through one single process – Naturalization. This process begins with Form N-400, which must be completed with accuracy and close attention to detail. Even small mistakes can cause delays or denials so it’s important to have the right guidance from the start.
At Albizu Law Firm, we are the team you need to take the first step towards your successful application. Our immigration lawyers for citizenship are ready to work alongside you to maximize your chances of approval.
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Naturalization vs. Citizenship: What’s the Difference?
When people talk about applying for citizenship, they usually mean applying for naturalization. These two terms are connected, often used like they mean the same thing, but that’s not the case. Naturalization is a process, while citizenship is a status. To better understand:
- Naturalization is the process permanent residents go through to become U.S. citizens. After filing the N-400, conducting the required checks, tests, interviews, and taking the mandatory Oath of Allegiance, you are granted a Certification of Naturalization.
- Citizenship is the legal status you hold if you were born a U.S. citizen or if the naturalization process is completed. People in this category have a U.S. Certification of Citizenship.
While both certificates prove the same thing, the legal citizenship of the individual, they are not the same document. Put simply, naturalization is the process, and citizenship is the result.
You can be exempted from naturalization if you were:
- Born in the United States, making you a citizen by birth.
- Born outside the U.S. but have a parent who is a U.S. citizen.
If either of these scenarios apply to you, you’re automatically qualified for citizenship without filing N-400.
The N-400 Application Process
The Form N-400 naturalization application process requires:
- Biographical information
- Travel history
- Employment and residence history
- Information about family members
- Criminal or immigration records (if any)
After filing, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will schedule a biometrics appointment, followed by an interview and testing. While the interview and testing steps can be some of the most stressful parts of the process, preparation by an experienced immigration attorney for citizenship can make a huge difference.
Who Can Apply for U.S. Citizenship?
Not everyone is eligible to apply for citizenship. The eligibility criteria to file for naturalization include:
Permanent Residents (Green Card Holders)
Most applicants must have held a green card for at least 5 years before applying. They must also show continuous residence and physical presence in the U.S.
Spouses of U.S. Citizens
If you are married to a U.S. citizen, you may apply after 3 years of permanent residency, as long as you have lived with your spouse during that time.
Military Service Members
Members of the U.S. Armed Forces (and sometimes their families) may qualify for an expedited path to citizenship.
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How Long Does It Take to Get Citizenship?
After you’ve had your green card for the appropriate amount of time, it typically takes between 4 and 6 months for your petition to make it through the naturalization process. That means you could take the Oath of Allegiance to the United States and swear in as a citizen within less than a year from applying.
Preparing for the Citizenship Test
The Form N-400 naturalization application process requires:
- Biographical information
- Travel history
- Employment and residence history
- Information about family members
- Criminal or immigration records (if any)
USCIS provides free study resources, which can be found directly on the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services website.
Why Work With an Immigration Lawyer for Citizenship?
While you can choose to apply on your own, having an immigration lawyer for citizenship as your guide can play a significant role in ensuring a smooth approval. The citizenship lawyer can:
- Review your N-400 for accuracy
- Prepare you for the interview and civics test
- Address past immigration or criminal issues
- Help you understand eligibility rules
- Reduce the risk of denial or delay
Start Your Journey with Albizu Law Firm
Choosing to apply for U.S. citizenship is a major life decision. At Albizu Law Firm, we work with individuals and families who want to make the United States their permanent home. From the first consultation, we’ll work with you with great care and attention to detail. Call us today at 512-601-5597 or fill out the form on our website to schedule a consultation today.