Apply For Citizenship
Obtaining US citizenship through naturalization allows individuals born abroad to become US citizens. This process is available to foreign nationals who meet specific eligibility criteria. Samie Law Firm is here to assist you every step of the way in achieving your goal of US citizenship!
Who Qualifies for US Citizenship ?
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Are you eligible for U.S. citizenship?
Apply for Citizenship by Marriage
Applying for U.S. citizenship through marriage is a common and viable option for foreign nationals married to U.S. citizens. After being married for at least three years, a foreign spouse can apply for a green card and, eventually, U.S. citizenship, as long as they meet all necessary legal requirements.
To qualify for naturalization through marriage, applicants must meet the three-year requirement for continuous residence and physical presence, demonstrate good moral character, and successfully pass the U.S. civics and English exams. Exemptions may be available for individuals with disabilities or those who meet specific age criteria.
The process begins with the application for a green card, requiring proof of a genuine marriage to the U.S. citizen, along with supporting documents. If the foreign spouse is already in the U.S., they can apply for status adjustment at the same time; otherwise, this step will follow later.
Further interviews may be necessary to confirm the authenticity of the marriage before the green card is issued. After obtaining the green card, the foreign spouse can apply for U.S. citizenship once they meet the required time and eligibility conditions. Contact an experienced immigration lawyer today to guide you through the process and ensure your eligibility for naturalization.
U.S. Citizenship Through Family Sponsorship
U.S. citizenship through family sponsorship is another pathway for individuals looking to gain permanent residence. Naturalized citizens can sponsor close relatives, such as spouses, children, and parents, for green cards under family-based immigration categories. However, green card holders typically need to wait five years before becoming eligible for naturalization.
To qualify for naturalization, applicants must meet the five-year requirement for continuous residence and physical presence, demonstrate good moral character, and pass the U.S. civics and English exams during the citizenship interview. It’s essential to understand that the process for family-based green cards can be lengthy, requiring patience and thorough documentation.
Consult with an experienced immigration lawyer to navigate the process efficiently and ensure your eligibility for U.S. citizenship through family sponsorship.
Achieve U.S. Citizenship Through Military Service
Foreign nationals who serve honorably in the U.S. Armed Forces may qualify for U.S. citizenship through naturalization. »
During Hostility Periods: Service members can apply for naturalization immediately after enlistment, as long as they serve honorably.
During Peacetime: A minimum of one year of honorable service is required, along with obtaining a green card. The application must be submitted while still in service or within six months after discharge.
Applicants must provide specific forms and a certificate of military service to prove honorable service. Seeking assistance from an experienced immigration lawyer can help simplify the process and ensure a smoother path to U.S. citizenship through military service.
Apply for Citizenship Through Parents
In some cases, individuals may be eligible for U.S. citizenship at birth, either by being born on U.S. soil or through U.S. citizen parent(s). However, proving citizenship can sometimes be complex, especially in situations like undocumented parents or births outside of formal hospital settings. In such cases, secondary evidence such as witness testimony, baptismal records, medical documents, or academic records can be used to establish citizenship.
Children born abroad to U.S. citizen parents may also acquire U.S. citizenship, provided all legal criteria are met. To document their citizenship, filing a Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA) with the U.S. Embassy in the child’s birth country is necessary.
In instances where a parent becomes a U.S. citizen after the child’s birth but before they turn 18, the child may still be eligible for citizenship. However, the child must first become a lawful permanent resident. An experienced immigration lawyer can guide families through this process to ensure the correct documentation and eligibility for U.S. citizenship.
Apply for Citizenship Through Employment
The first step towards U.S. citizenship through employment is obtaining a green card. Green cards can be obtained through specific job offers, asylum, or refugee status. For example, individuals with exceptional abilities may be eligible to self-petition for a green card.
After achieving legal permanent residency, applicants can apply for naturalization once they meet the required waiting period and eligibility criteria. Consulting with an experienced immigration lawyer can help determine your eligibility and provide guidance throughout the application process.
US Citizenship Through Asylum or Refugee Status
Foreign nationals who are granted asylum or refugee status in the U.S. may eventually qualify for naturalization. After obtaining a green card, individuals can apply for U.S. citizenship once they have fulfilled the required waiting period and meet all eligibility criteria.
As with other naturalization pathways, applicants must prove good moral character, maintain physical presence and continuous residence in the U.S., and pass the U.S. civics and English exams. Seeking help from an experienced immigration lawyer can ensure a smooth and successful journey toward U.S. citizenship for asylum and refugee applicants.
Have Question?
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Can I lose my US citizenship once I am naturalized?
US citizenship obtained through naturalization is generally permanent. However, citizenship can be revoked if it is proven that it was obtained fraudulently or if the individual voluntarily renounces their citizenship.
What is the Oath of Allegiance?
The Oath of Allegiance is a pledge taken by naturalization applicants during the citizenship ceremony. By taking the oath, you commit to supporting the US Constitution, renouncing allegiance to other nations, and faithfully fulfilling the duties of a US citizen.
Do I need to pass a test to become a US citizen?
Yes, most applicants must pass the English language test and the US civics exam during their naturalization interview. Exceptions or waivers may apply for individuals with disabilities or those who meet specific age and residency criteria.
How long does the naturalization process take?
The naturalization process timeline can vary depending on individual circumstances, application processing times, and interview scheduling. On average, the process can take 8-14 months from the date of application.
How does US citizenship work for asylum seekers and refugees?
Asylum seekers and refugees can apply for naturalization after becoming green card holders and maintaining permanent residency for the required time (typically 5 years). They must also meet other naturalization requirements, such as physical presence, moral character, and passing the required exams.
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