Are you ready to take the final step on the pathway to citizenship? We would be thrilled to accompany you across the finish line! Our team will help you complete your application, gather appropriate supporting documents, and prepare for your Naturalization Interview and Exam. Contact our dedicated Lancaster County naturalization lawyers for a free consultation and more information today.
Naturalization Lawyers | Here to Help You Achieve Your American Dream
For many immigrants, becoming a naturalized United States citizen is their dream. If you believe you qualify for U.S. citizenship, our seasoned team of Lancaster County immigration lawyers is here to walk you through each step of the process.
Who Qualifies for Naturalization?
Becoming a U.S. citizen through naturalization is a significant milestone that opens new doors of opportunity and belonging. However, not everyone qualifies for this path. To be eligible for naturalization, you must meet the following criteria:
- Age Requirement: You must be at least 18 years old at the time of filing your Application for Naturalization (Form N-400).
- Permanent Resident Status: You must hold a valid Green Card and have been a lawful permanent resident of the United States for at least 5 years. In cases where you are married to a U.S. citizen, this requirement is reduced to 3 years.
- Continuous Residence: You must have lived continuously in the U.S. for at least 5 years (or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen) before applying. Absences from the country that exceed 6 months but are less than one year may disrupt this continuity unless you can provide a valid reason.
- Physical Presence: Out of the 5 years of permanent residency, you must have been physically present in the U.S. for at least 30 months (or 18 months for spouses of U.S. citizens).
- Good Moral Character: Demonstrating good moral character is essential. This means you have not been involved in certain crimes or actions that would disqualify you during the 5 years before applying (or 3 years for spouses of U.S. citizens).
- English Language Proficiency: You must be able to read, write, and speak basic English. There are exceptions based on age and long-term residency.
- U.S. History and Government Knowledge: You must pass a civics test that covers important U.S. history and government topics unless you qualify for an exemption or waiver.
- Attachment to the U.S. Constitution: You must be willing to support and defend the U.S. Constitution and understand the Oath of Allegiance to the United States.
An Overview of the Naturalization Process
Once you’re sure that you meet all the eligibility requirements for naturalization, you’ll have to go through the following steps on your way to becoming a naturalized U.S. citizen:
- Prepare Your Application: Complete the Application for Naturalization (Form N-400). Accuracy and completeness are crucial.
- Gather Necessary Documents: Collect all required supporting documents, including proof of permanent residency, evidence of your current marital status, and any name change documents.
- Submit Your Application and Pay the Fees: File your Form N-400 and supporting documents with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). You’ll also need to pay the applicable filing fee unless you qualify for a fee waiver.
- Attend the Biometrics Appointment: After filing, you’ll receive an appointment notice for biometrics (fingerprinting and photo), which will be used for background checks.
- Prepare for and Pass the Naturalization Interview and Exam: You will be scheduled for an interview with a USCIS officer, during which you will take the English and civics tests, unless exempted.
- Receive a Decision: USCIS will notify you of its decision on your application. If approved, you’ll move on to the next step. If denied, you may have options to appeal or reapply.
- Take the Oath of Allegiance: Once approved, you’ll attend a ceremony to take the Oath of Allegiance to the United States, officially becoming a U.S. citizen.
Contact Our Pennsylvania Naturalization Lawyers Today
You’ve come this far–don’t risk proceeding without a skilled team of Lancaster naturalization lawyers who can help get you over the finish line. Contact Lupton Law LLC today so we can get started.
