Applying for Naturalization to United States Citizenship

Applying for Naturalization to United States Citizenship

Naturalization

There are many requirements in place to qualify for naturalization and the process of applying can be complex. It is helpful to have an experienced San Jose immigration defense attorney, who has helped countless clients with naturalization, by your side. Before applying, be sure that you fit the requirements of naturalization, such as being a resident for 5 years or married to a US citizen for 3 years, being 18 years old, being literate with Basic English, etc. You do not want to waste time preparing and going through the process if you are not eligible. The form involved to apply for naturalization is Form N-400. A brief overview of the process of applying includes:

  • Completing an eligibility worksheet
  • Completing the application
    • Involves passport style pictures and the required documents
  • Having fingerprints taken (you may need to mail them to the USCIS if requested)
  • Completing an interview with your local USCIS office
    • Be sure to have your state identification, Permanent resident card and other required documents
    • Answer questions, take the English test and the civics tests
    • Find out your case status
  • Taking an oath
    • There will be a ceremony where you take an Oath of Allegiance
  • Receiving your Certificate of Naturalization

The most time consuming process may be preparing to apply for naturalization. The USCIS provides A Guide to Naturalization for applicants to read at the start of the naturalization process. If you read this guide and instantly have questions, feel free to contact the Law Offices of Daniel Shanfield – Immigration Defense, PC for help. The naturalization process is meant to be fair and done in a timely matter, a skilled lawyer can help you through this process and make sure the process is consistent and fair. Contact our office today to set up a consultation.

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