Goose Creek Citizenship and Naturalization Lawyer

The legal process of naturalization in the United States allows immigrants to become U.S. citizens. Eligibility requires obtaining permanent resident status for at least three to five years or qualifying as a military member. Completing the naturalization process provides many advantages, including voting rights, protection from deportation, sponsoring family members living abroad so they can join you in the U.S., and much more.

While starting the process is exciting, it can also be time consuming and frustrating. Many people seek help from an experienced immigration attorney. Contact a compassionate Goose Creek citizenship and naturalization lawyer today for more information.

What is the Difference Between Naturalization and Citizenship?

Naturalization and citizenship have distinct differences in the context of U.S. immigration laws. Citizenship is recognition as a member of the country and enjoying all the rights and responsibilities that come with it.

A person can become a citizen in one of two ways: by being born in the U.S. or by naturalization, which allows foreign nationals to complete requirements and become lawful citizens. Naturalization is the legal process that enables non-citizens to acquire U.S. citizenship after establishing their eligibility and meeting other requirements.

The Requirements for Naturalization

The requirements for naturalization in the U.S. include the following:

• The applicant must be at least 18 years old
• Have lawful permanent resident status for at least five years for those unmarried or married to non-citizens or three years for those married to a U.S. citizen
• Have continuous residence in the U.S. for a minimum of five years
• Have been physically present in the country for at least five years
• Demonstrate good moral character, including obeying federal and state laws, paying taxes, and supporting the U.S. Constitution
• Can read, write, and speak in English
• Pass a civics test demonstrating knowledge of the U.S. government and the history of the country
• Attend the ceremony to take an oath of allegiance to the U.S.

A Goose Creek citizenship and naturalization attorney can help you determine if you need the requirements and gather the necessary documents to complete the process.

Steps to Naturalization

Understanding the requirements and necessary steps to complete the complex and detailed process of becoming a U.S. citizen is essential for those wishing to obtain citizenship. The steps to naturalization include the following:

• Review the requirements to ensure eligibility
• Complete all the necessary information and submit a Form N-400, Application for Naturalization
• Pay the necessary fees
• Complete the biometrics appointment to provide biometric data for the immigration application
• Arrive at the specified time and date to complete the interview process
• Await the decision from USCIS on your application
• After receiving notice of appointment, arrive to take the Oath of Allegiance to the United States

An experienced citizenship and naturalization lawyer in Goose Creek can help you through each step of the process, gather the documents, and obtain updates on the process.

Speak to a Diligent Citizenship and Naturalization Attorney in Goose Creek Today

While naturalization requires gathering paperwork and complying with the law, the benefits of becoming a U.S. citizen make the challenging process more than worth it. Naturalization could mean remaining in the U.S. permanently, holding gainful employment, access to education, and the ability to bring your family members to the country.

A qualified Goose Creek citizenship and naturalization lawyer understands how stressful the process can be, can help you through each step, and can provide updates on your application. Call today to schedule an appointment and begin preparing.