Becoming a citizen of the United States is the main objective of many immigrants and relatives of American citizens. However, the process can be long and difficult, and the “American Dream” becomes more complicated to attain as time goes on. But, it’s not impossible, and hundreds of thousands of immigrants become U.S. citizens every year.
You might ask, who can become a naturalized citizen of the United States?
If you want to apply for the naturalization process, you must meet these requirements:
You must have been a permanent resident for at least 5 years. If you are married to a U.S. citizen, you only need 3 years of permanent residency.
You must physically have been in the United States for at least two and a half years to apply.
You must present a good record of moral character as a permanent resident. This requirement can be complicated for those who have been convicted of a serious crime. If you have been sentenced for a felony, you must notify your immigration attorney before applying for the naturalization process.
You must show that you can read, write, and speak English. There are exceptions for older adults who have lived in the country for at least 15 years, but all others must pass an English assessment.
You must pass the United States citizenship and naturalization test regarding the history of the U.S.
At the Law Office of Valdez, Monarrez & San Miguel we can help you apply for your citizenship or naturalization. If this is your goal, give us a call and request a free legal consultation with our skilled immigration attorneys. It’s our goal to fight on the behalf of our clients and get the best outcome for their case.