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Elmhurst Citizenship Attorney

Elmhurst Citizenship Attorney

The United States has been welcoming immigrants from all over the world for centuries. Once someone arrives in the U.S., either with a temporary nonimmigrant visa or green card, a common goal for many is to one day become U.S. citizens. One becomes a U.S. citizen either by birth in the U.S. or its territories or through the naturalization process. At Minsky, McCormick & Hallagan, we help clients in the Chicago area to seamlessly navigate through the naturalization process.

Naturalization Process and Criteria

Naturalization is the process by which a noncitizen becomes a U.S. citizen. The process is started by the noncitizen submitting an N-400 Application for Naturalization. The application is submitted to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS), which administers the country’s immigration and naturalization laws. The agency makes decisions on naturalization applications after investigating and determining whether the applicant is eligible for citizenship. 

Eligibility for Naturalization

One can apply for citizenship if they are in any of the following classes of people if they also meet other eligibility criteria discussed below:

  • Having been a permanent resident (green card holder) of the U.S. for the five years immediately before applying for citizenship
  • Having obtained a green card through marriage to a U.S. citizen and have been a green card holder living in the U.S. for three or more years.
  • Being a member of a qualifying service in the U.S. Armed Forces; and
  • Being a child of U.S. citizens who live outside the United States.

If you are in any of the above classes, you must also meet the following eligibility requirements to be considered and approved for citizenship:

  • Being eighteen years of age or older.
  • Demonstration of good moral character.
  • Having the ability to speak, read and write English unless certain exceptions apply.
  • Having a basic knowledge of the U.S. government, unless you have physical or mental impairments that prevent this.
  • Having a continuous residence and presence in the U.S.

Naturalization Application Process

Applying for and becoming a U.S. citizen through the naturalization process takes time. The process includes the USCIS conducting a criminal background check on you. USCIS also reviews your immigration record to make sure the information in it is consistent with your application. Any discrepancies or negative information found in your immigration record can result in the denial of your application. 

This is why it is important to have an experienced naturalization lawyer to help you in the preparation and filing of your paperwork with USCIS. 

As part of reviewing your application, you may be required to attend an interview. During this interview, an immigration officer will ask you questions about your application. It is important that you are truthful in your answers. 

The USCIS will decide to approve or deny your application after completing the investigation of your case, including your interview. If your application is approved, you will be invited to a naturalization ceremony, where you will be sworn in as a U.S. citizen. The whole naturalization process takes about 8-14 months.

Speak with An Elmhurst Citizenship Attorney About Your Options

If you are in the Elmhurst area and are interested in applying for citizenship, contact our office today to schedule an appointment to find out how we can help you.

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