Our highly experienced Phoenix naturalization lawyers at Maria Jones Law Firm can help you realize your goal of becoming a citizen through the naturalization process. Schedule a Free Consultation today to understand your legal options and the way ahead
Our Phoenix naturalization attorneys can help you prepare all necessary paperwork for your USCIS (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services) interview, and will accompany you to the interview. Yes, our team of legal experts specializing in helping immigrants acquire citizenship through the naturalization process will support and guide you every step of the way.
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How to Become a U.S. Citizen Through Naturalization
Naturalization is the legal process whereby a citizen of a foreign country becomes a citizen of the United States. Immigrants who have legally entered the United States, are 18 years or older, and have been a lawful Permanent Resident in the U.S. for the past five years may apply to become a naturalized U.S. citizen. They may also qualify for naturalization if they are married to a U.S. citizen and have lived with him or her and have been Permanent Residents for the last 3 years.
Under the Immigration and Nationality Act, immigrants or lawful Permanent Residents who serve(d) honorably in the U.S. Armed Forces or Selective Ready Reserve during wartime, may file for immediate citizenship. Green Card holders who serve(d) in the military for a year or more during peacetime may also qualify for naturalization.
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A knowledgeable Phoenix naturalization lawyer at Maria Jones Law Firm can answer specific questions that you may have about qualifications and how to proceed. Call (602) 603-4032 today!
Naturalization: Rights & Obligations of Citizenship
Naturalization is not exactly a legal requirement. As a lawful Permanent Resident, you may continue to live & work in the U.S. indefinitely. You are not ‘required’ to become a U.S. citizen. But, there are numerous benefits of becoming a U.S. citizen.
Once you become a naturalized U.S. citizen, you enjoy the same rights and benefits as U.S. born citizens, such as:
- The privilege of voting in local, state and federal elections
- The benefit of working for a government agency
- The right to receive various government benefits
- The freedom to travel outside the country with a U.S. passport
- The joy of sponsoring a foreign relative to become a U.S. citizen
- The ability to show your patriotism by running for public office
- The right to live in the U.S. without fear of possible deportation
Once you become a United States citizen, you also take on certain obligations, such as serving on a jury, paying taxes, voting, and registering for Selective Service (for males aged 18 and over).
Are you an immigrant residing in the US? Do you want to become a US citizen through naturalization? Our Phoenix naturalization attorneys can help you become a US citizen by guiding you through the complex process of citizenship & naturalization. Our team has extensive experience in immigration law.
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Preparing for Your USCIS Citizenship Interview
After you have met all residency requirements and completed your Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, you will be required to attend a USCIS interview.
The examiner will ask you questions about yourself, your application, and residency in the U.S. He/she will test your ability to speak, read and write English. The examiner will also want to know if you have a fundamental understanding of U.S. history and civics (the rights and responsibilities of U.S. citizens).
Do keep in mind some individuals are not required to take the English test. Others may be exempt from both the English & civics exam for getting citizenship through naturalization.
Applicants above the age of 50 years, who have resided in the U.S. for at least 20 years, need not take the English exam. This is commonly known as the 50/20 rule.
Applicants above the age of 55 years, who have been permanent residents in the U.S. for 15 years or more, need not take the English exam. This is commonly known as the 55/15 rule.
In both the cases, applicants are required to bring interpreters during their naturalization interview with the USCIS. They can take the civics test in their native language.
Green card holders (for at least 20 years) who are above the age of 65 are exempt from taking both English and civics tests for obtaining citizenship through naturalization.
When the USCIS approves your application, you will be scheduled to attend a Naturalization Ceremony. During this joyous but solemn ceremony, you will be asked to take an Oath of Allegiance to “support and defend the Constitution and laws of the United States of America.” After you take the oath, you will receive your Certificate of Naturalization. Only when you receive this Certificate – you will be officially considered a citizen of the United States.
Our Attorneys Can Help You Realize Your Naturalization Goals
Obtaining U.S. citizenship through naturalization can be an arduous process. The process can take a long time if you do not have a dependable team of immigration law experts on your side. This is where Maria Jones Law Firm can help. Our team of naturalization attorneys in Phoenix can help regardless of whether your case is simple or complicated. Our dedicated team of immigration law specialists will be by your side every step of the way.
Call (602) 603-4032 to schedule your free consultation with a multicultural team of Phoenix naturalization attorneys who speak Russian, Spanish, and English. You can take an essential step toward naturalization and your future right away
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