U.S. citizenship is often the ultimate goal for lawful permanent residents (i.e. green card holders) living in the United States. U.S. citizenship carries with it many benefits not available to lawful permanent residents, such as the ability to vote in U.S. elections, to run for public office in the U.S., to serve on a jury in the U.S., and the ability to depart the U.S. for long periods of time without fear of losing one’s status.
If you are a lawful permanent resident and wish to become a naturalized U.S. citizen, contact the Chicago naturalization lawyers at Minsky, McCormick & Hallagan, P.C., to learn more.
Naturalization refers to the process of granting citizenship in the United States to a foreign citizen who has been a lawful permanent resident in the U.S. for a requisite period of time and meets certain other requirements set forth by the Immigration and Nationality Act. Before you embark on the naturalization process, retain the help of a skilled Chicago naturalization attorney who can guide you through the requirements and address any problems that you may encounter with your naturalization application. A denied naturalization application may in some cases result in deportation proceedings, so consult with an expert to avoid any unanticipated risks or errors.
In general, the following four types of lawful permanent residents may be eligible to apply for naturalization:
In addition, all naturalization applicants must meet other necessary requirements, such as having continuous residence and being physically present in the U.S. for a requisite period of time, having good moral character and be well disposed to the good order and happiness of the U.S., and in most cases being able to read, write and speak English and have knowledge and understanding of U.S. history and government. Contact one of our Chicago naturalization lawyers to determine if you are eligible and to assist you in your naturalization process.
Certain factors may make you ineligible for naturalization and may even expose you the possibility of being deportable from the U.S. For example, an application for naturalization may be denied because of certain criminal issues, extended trips outside of the U.S., failure to pay taxes or support dependents, or even certain unresolved issues that were not disclosed or apparent in the individual’s application for lawful permanent residency (i.e. green card). The lawyers at Minsky, McCormick & Hallagan, P.C. can determine if you are eligible for naturalization and if there are any risks to your application, and recommend the best path towards achieving your dream of becoming a U.S. citizen.
If you wish to become a citizen of the United States, retain the help of a Chicago naturalization lawyer. Call Minsky, McCormick & Hallagan, P.C., to schedule your consultation today.