Birmingham Citizenship and Naturalization Lawyer

Citizenship in the United States confers several unique rights and privileges that can make a huge difference in every aspect of your life. However, while it is possible for people who are not U.S. citizens by birth to achieve it through the naturalization process, they must meet numerous qualifying criteria and progress through a lengthy application procedure before they can be granted this status.

Therefore, guidance from a seasoned immigration attorney can be crucial to obtaining naturalized citizenship in the most effective and efficient way possible. Once retained, your Birmingham citizenship and naturalization lawyer could outline your rights and tenaciously protect your best interests throughout all your interactions with U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services.

Who Is Eligible for Citizenship?

In most situations, Birmingham residents become eligible to apply for naturalization after maintaining legal and continuous residence in the United States for a minimum of five years. However, this window can change depending on the situation. For instance, individuals who are married to U.S. citizens only need to hold legal permanent resident status for three years before applying for naturalization, and active-duty military personnel can pursue this option after at least one year of service.

Other requirements for citizenship eligibility include:

• Being at least 18 years old
• Being physically present in the U.S. for a minimum of 30 months in the five years prior to filing
• Residing in the state or USCIS district where the application is filed for at least three months before filing
• Possessing “Good moral character” for five years prior to applying
• Having basic ability to read, speak, and write English
• Having a fundamental knowledge of U.S. civics, government, and history

Importantly, anyone born to at least one U.S. citizen or on U.S. soil qualifies for natural citizenship, regardless of any other qualifications. A Birmingham citizenship and naturalization attorney could review a prospective applicant’s circumstances during a private initial meeting and help determine whether they may be eligible to pursue this option.

Basic Steps in the Naturalization Process

Anyone who is eligible to apply for citizenship in can begin the application process by filling out and submitting Form N-400 online, by mail, or in person at their nearest USCIS field office. Making sure to avoid errors or mistakes on this form is crucial, as a dedicated citizenship lawyer in Birmingham could explain.

After USCIS finishes processing an application, all applicants must report to a designated USCIS field office for a naturalization interview, and many applicants will also need to complete biometrics screening either before or on the same day as their meeting. Once all these steps have been completed and reviewed, USCIS will either deny the application, continue the petition if they need additional information from the applicant, or grant the request. Once someone granted citizenship completes and submits Form N-445, finishes the Oath of Allegiance ceremony detailed on that form, and turns in their Green Card, they are officially a U.S. citizen for life.

This entire process might seem overwhelming, but a knowledgeable representative from our firm is here to help with all naturalization and citizenship questions.

A Birmingham Citizenship and Naturalization Attorney Could Help

Achieving naturalized citizenship is a momentous accomplishment, and one that could change the future of your family for the better.  However, trying to apply for naturalization without professional legal guidance could wind up leaving you with substantial processing delays or even an outright rejection.

Thankfully, working with a Birmingham citizenship and naturalization lawyer could be vital to giving yourself the best chances of a positive application outcome. Call today to learn more.