Lombard Immigration Lawyer

Lombard Immigration Lawyer

There are many lawful immigration statuses to choose from. For many immigrants, citizenship provides the most permanent option with the greatest number of legal rights. American citizens cannot be deported. They may also vote – a legal right that has never been more important after the critical social events of recent years. The Lombard immigration lawyers at Minsky, McCormick & Hallagan are here to answer all your questions about obtaining U.S. citizenship. 

Citizenship By Birth

Almost all children born in the United States are entitled to citizenship. But did you know that children born abroad to U.S. citizens can also claim citizenship? There are two common scenarios that are used to establish your right to citizenship: 

(1) If you were born abroad to two U.S. citizens and at least one of your parents lived in the United States at some point in his or her life.

(2)  If you were born abroad to one U.S. citizen and: 

• One of your parents was a U.S. citizen at the time of your birth.
• Your citizen parent lived in the United States for at least five years before you were born.
• At least two of those five years in the United States were after your citizen parent’s 14th birthday.

There are certain exceptions to these rules, so it is important to consult with a Lombard immigration lawyer about your unique case to be sure that you qualify for citizenship by birth. If you do, you can apply for an American passport to have your citizenship formally recognized by the government. 

Citizenship By Naturalization

Citizenship by birth is relatively rare. What is far more common is citizenship by naturalization. In this process, a person becomes an American citizen by qualifying on their own merits. This includes: lawfully holding a green card for the required length of time, passing background checks on your criminal history and related matters, and passing exams in English proficiency and American civics. 

You do not have to prove American citizenship in your family history (as one must do to establish citizenship by birth). Once USCIS confirms that you meet all the citizenship requirements, you will be invited to take the citizenship oath. This is an Oath of Allegiance to the United States. Upon taking the oath, you are officially an American citizen.   

Naturalized citizens cannot be deported from the United States. The government can apply for “denaturalization” in serious circumstances, but this is a far more complex process than deportation through removal proceedings. This is just one more reason why citizenship is a more secure immigration status than holding a green card or visa.

Experienced Lombard Immigration Lawyers For All Citizenship Cases

The experienced Lombard immigration lawyers at Minsky, McCormick & Hallagan have experience handling all types of citizenship cases. We fight hard to protect our clients’ immigration rights, and we know how to prevent costly mistakes and delays in the citizenship process. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with an experienced Lombard immigration attorney. The sooner you begin the citizenship process, the sooner your legal rights can be secured.