Essex County Naturalization Attorney

One of the most exciting points in life for many people is when they are afforded the opportunity to become a citizen of the United States. In order to do this, they will have to meet all of the requirements for citizenship and complete the naturalization process. There are many benefits to becoming a naturalized citizen of the United States. The Law Offices of Christopher T. Howell, Esq. can help you achieve this dream. If you need an experienced immigration attorney who can effectively guide you through the naturalization process, contact our firm today.

Eligibility requirements for naturalization

Some of these requirements vary depending on the person’s immigration status leading up to this point. This is applicable for the continuous residence requirement. Permanent residents must have lived in the United States for five years before becoming eligible. These individuals must have been physically present in the U.S. for 30 months of the five-year period. However, if you have come to the United States as the spouse of a citizen, you will only have to meet a three-year requirement of continuous residency.

This three-year pathway applies to spouses of U.S. citizens, but it does not apply to military service members. Military applicants may qualify under special provisions of the law that can reduce or completely waive the usual continuous residence and physical presence requirements.

For example, certain applicants serving during designated periods of hostilities may naturalize without meeting any continuous residence or physical presence requirement.

Another requirement is that the applicants must be able to show that they have good moral character and have a loyalty to the United States.

Finally, they need to show knowledge of U.S. history, government, and the English language. There are specific age- and residency-based exemptions to the English requirement, as well as a medical disability waiver that may apply in certain situations.

The Naturalization Process

Prospective citizens who meet the requirements listed above can start the naturalization process by filing Form N-400, the application for naturalization. You will be required to submit your application, necessary documents, and application fees to the USCIS. They will then require you to attend a biometrics appointment. Finally, you will have to attend an interview with a USCIS officer who will ask about your application, your background, and take the English and civics test. Some applicants, such as those who qualify under the 50/20, 55/15, or 65/20 rules, or those who receive a medical waiver, may be exempt from certain parts of the English or civics tests. Upon being approved, you will be able to conclude the process with a naturalization ceremony.

The naturalization ceremony is the final date of the process and is sure to be a very memorable day in your life. At the ceremony, you will return your Green Card unless it is unavailable due to loss, expiration, or prior surrender, in which case USCIS may waive the requirement, check in with the immigration officer, take the Oath of Allegiance to the United States, and finally, receive your Certificate of Naturalization.

Benefits of Becoming a Citizen

Once you have officially become a citizen of the United States, you will be able to enjoy a number of benefits. You will be able to vote, obtain a U.S. passport, petition certain family members to immigrate to the United States as permanent residents, hold positions in government, and more. You should also be sure to inform the Social Security Administration of your change in status.

Contact a NJ Naturalization Attorney

Becoming a U.S. citizen comes with great opportunities. Serving immigrants as they pursue their dream of naturalization is a pleasure and an honor. Seeing them take an oath of allegiance is so inspiring. If you are looking forward to becoming a U.S. citizen, it is important to have an experienced legal team guide you through each step. We congratulate you on taking such a significant step. We know how important this is to you and are here to make sure any obstacles are overcome. Contact a naturalization attorney from the Law Offices of Christopher T. Howell, Esq. today.