Becoming a U.S. citizen is a significant milestone, offering a wide range of benefits, including the right to vote, access to government jobs, and eligibility for U.S. passports. Naturalization is the legal process through which a foreign national can acquire U.S. citizenship. If you’ve been living in the United States as a lawful permanent resident and are ready to take the next step in your immigration journey, naturalization could be the key. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the naturalization process, the eligibility criteria, and how Larhdel Law can help you achieve your goal of U.S. citizenship.

Why Should You Pursue U.S. Citizenship?

Becoming a U.S. citizen offers many advantages:

• Full Legal Rights: You can vote in elections, run for office, and enjoy other political rights.
• Travel Flexibility: U.S. citizens can travel internationally with a U.S. passport, and you’ll have greater ease in re-entering the U.S.
• Access to Benefits: U.S. citizens are eligible for federal jobs, Social Security benefits, and healthcare programs.
• Family Reunification: U.S. citizens can sponsor more family members for immigration, including parents, siblings, and married children.

Eligibility for Naturalization

To apply for naturalization, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements. These include:

1. Permanent Residency
   • You must have been a legal permanent resident (Green Card holder) for at least five years (three years if married to a U.S. citizen).
2. Physical Presence and Continuous Residence
   • You must have lived in the U.S. for at least half of the five (or three) years as a permanent resident.
   • You should not have been outside the U.S. for extended periods, as long absences could disrupt your continuous residence.
3. Good Moral Character
   • You must show that you have demonstrated good moral character for the past five years (or three years if married to a U.S. citizen). This includes following U.S. laws, paying taxes, and not having serious criminal convictions.
4. English Language Proficiency
   • You must be able to speak, read, and write basic English. This includes demonstrating your ability to understand U.S. history and government (civics). Some exemptions apply based on age and time spent as a Green Card holder.
5. U.S. Civics Test
   • Applicants must pass a test on U.S. history and government unless they qualify for an exemption based on age or disability.

How to Apply for Naturalization

1. Determine Your Eligibility

   Confirm that you meet the eligibility requirements for naturalization.

2. Complete Form N-400

   File Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization) with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This form asks for information about your background, residency, and moral character.

3. Submit Your Documents

   Submit the following documents with Form N-400:

   • A copy of your Green Card (Form I-551).
   • Passport-style photos.
   • Any documents supporting your claim of continuous residence and good moral character.
4. Biometrics Appointment

   USCIS will schedule you for a biometrics appointment where your fingerprints and photograph will be taken for background checks.

5. Interview with USCIS

   You will be scheduled for an interview where a USCIS officer will review your application, ask questions about your background, and administer the civics and English tests.

6. Oath of Allegiance

   Attend a naturalization ceremony to take the Oath of Allegiance, officially becoming a U.S. citizen.

How Larhdel Law Can Assist You in the Naturalization Process

• Eligibility Assessment: We assess your immigration history and current status to determine if you meet the naturalization requirements.
• Application Preparation: We ensure your Form N-400 and all required documents are correctly completed and submitted.
• Interview Coaching: We offer personalized coaching for the naturalization interview, including civics test preparation.
• Addressing Complicated Issues: We provide legal support for any challenges in your immigration status or history.

The journey to becoming a U.S. citizen is life-changing, and Larhdel Law is here to guide you every step of the way. If you’re ready to start your naturalization process, contact us today at 310 943 6352 for expert assistance. Let us help you secure your future and enjoy all the benefits of U.S. citizenship.