Naturalization and Who Qualifies?
Naturalization is a process that changes a person’s immigrant status to that of a US Citizen. For Naturalization you need-
- A green card for 57 months (33 months if the green card was obtained through marriage to a US Citizen),
- Know the English language well
- Be familiar with US Civics and History
- Have a good moral character.
Citizenship through Naturalization
An application for naturalization can be done after 4 years and 9 months from the date that you received your green card, or 2 years and 9 months (33 months) if you received your green card through marriage to a US Citizen or VAWA. You have to be physically present in the US for 30 months or 18 months if you received your green card through marriage without breaking continuity of residence in the US, unless you can prove later that continuity was not broken.
Interpretations of the rules for Naturalization
Those above 50 and with a green card for 15-20 years have concessions in the English language test. Disability exemptions are applicable for all tests.
65, year olds, with a green card for 20 years, need only a simplified civics and history test.
Good moral character, being subjective, is often decided by the reviewing officer. Community service, arrests, convictions, drunkenness, etc are taken into consideration.
Benefits and Limitations of Applying for Naturalization
- Naturalization can lead to US Citizenship.
- A US Citizen has plenty of benefits
- You are eligible to vote and apply for government jobs.
- Fraud in case of Naturalization can revoke the citizenship.
Attorney’s role in Naturalization
Many people feel uncomfortable facing a USCIS officer alone. Some, applicants don’t know which document they should present and how to present their case especially if there are complications like previous arrests, breaks in continuity of stay in the US, etc. For all this an immigration lawyer with experience is highly recommended.
Contact the Shah Peerally Law Group to discuss your Naturalization process. Contact through email at [email protected] or call at 510-742-5887.
