Citizenship & Naturalization

Naturalization Lawyer In Los Angeles

Naturalization is the process by which a person becomes a citizen of the United States if they were not born in the country. 

To become a naturalized citizen, a person must complete an application and meet certain requirements, such as having lived in the United States for a certain period of time and showing that they are able to speak, read, and write in English, if required. They must also pass a civics test to demonstrate knowledge of U.S. history and government. 

Naturalization is a way for people from other countries to fully integrate into American society and enjoy the same rights and privileges as those born in the United States. It’s an important part of the country’s history and identity as a nation of immigrants.

Eligibility Criteria for Naturalization

Our offices can explain the general eligibility criteria for naturalization in the United States, which include the following:

• Age: The applicant must be at least 18 years old.
• Residency: The applicant must have held a green card for at least 5 years (or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen).
• Continuous residence: The applicant must have lived in the U.S. continuously for 5 years (or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen) before applying.
• English language: The applicant must be able to read, write, and speak basic English.
• US history and government: The applicant must pass a civics test on U.S. history and government.
• Good moral character: The applicant must demonstrate good moral character.
• Oath of allegiance: The applicant must be willing to take an oath of allegiance to the United States and renounce any previous allegiances.

There may be additional requirements or exceptions to the above depending on the specific circumstances of the applicant, but these are the general criteria that must be met in order to be eligible for naturalization.

How to Apply for Naturalization in Los Angeles?

Here are the steps to apply for naturalization:

1. Determine if you are eligible: As discussed earlier, you must meet certain eligibility criteria to apply for naturalization. Make sure you meet the requirements before starting the application process.
2. Complete the application form: The first step in the application process is to complete Form N-400, Application for Naturalization. This form can be filled out online or on paper, and it asks for personal information, details about your immigration status, and other information about your background, including criminal history.
3. Get your biometrics taken: Once your application is submitted, you will receive a notice to go to an Application Support Center to have your biometrics (fingerprints, photo, and signature) taken. This information will be used to conduct a background check on you.
4. Attend an interview: After your biometrics have been taken, you will receive a notice to attend an interview with a USCIS officer. During the interview, you will be asked several questions regarding your application.
5. Pass the civics and English tests: To become a naturalized citizen, you must pass the civics and English tests. These tests are administered during the interview and are designed to assess your knowledge of U.S. history and government, and your ability to speak, read, and write in English.
6. Receive a decision on your application: After the interview, the USCIS officer will review your application and determine if you are eligible for naturalization. If your application is approved, you will receive a notice to attend a naturalization ceremony.
7. Take the Oath of Allegiance: This oath declares your loyalty to the US and your commitment to uphold its laws and Constitution. After taking the oath, you will receive your certificate of naturalization, officially becoming a U.S. citizen.

It’s important to note that the application process can take several months or even years, depending on the backlog at USCIS and the complexity of your case. Make sure to follow the instructions carefully and provide all necessary documents and information to avoid delays or problems with your application.

Do you need a lawyer for naturalization? It is highly recommended that you work with a lawyer for naturalization to strengthen your case and fast-track the entire process. 

Benefits of Naturalization

Here are some of the benefits of naturalization in the US, broken down into sections:

Political and Civic Benefits:

• Right to vote: Naturalized citizens have the right to vote in all federal, state, and local elections.
• Hold public office: Naturalized citizens can run for and hold most elected offices in the United States, except for the presidency and vice presidency.
• Jury service: Naturalized citizens can serve on juries, which is an important civic duty in the United States.
• Political participation: Naturalized citizens have the right to participate fully in the democratic process, including petitioning the government, joining political parties, and expressing their opinions on public policy issues.

Immigration Benefits:

• Family reunification: Naturalized citizens can sponsor family members for green cards and help them immigrate to the United States.
• Travel benefits: Naturalized citizens can apply for a U.S. passport, which they can use to travel freely in and out of the United States.
• Protection from deportation: Naturalized citizens are protected from deportation in most cases, except for certain criminal offenses or fraud in the naturalization process.