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Becoming a citizen of the United States is the ultimate reward at the end of a lengthy process. Long before you can secure naturalized citizenship, you will need first to become a lawful permanent resident of the United States.
Other qualifications must be met, from passing a civics test to mastering English. Even then, a single mistake could upend your chances. Taking this path without the support of a dedicated immigration lawyer is risky. You could improve your chances of success with the help of a citizenship and naturalization lawyer.
There are plenty of reasons why a person may want to become a naturalized citizen of the United States. This legal status allows a person to live and work in the U.S. for the rest of their lives, but that is only a small part of why countless people pursue this path.
For long-time residents of the U.S., becoming a citizen provides an extra layer of certainty and protection. There is no longer the possibility of being deported, and citizens cannot be denied reentry after traveling abroad. All of these rights offer significant peace of mind.
Citizens have the right to work in the U.S. and are eligible for jobs that non-citizens cannot qualify for. The federal government prohibits non-citizens from filling most positions.
Citizens also gain the right to vote in federal elections. It may be possible to secure all of these rights with the support of a naturalization and citizenship attorney.
It is not possible to simply apply to be a citizen of the United States on a whim. This is a long, drawn-out process that includes numerous qualifications that can span years. Generally, this is the final step in an immigration journey that has spanned continents and years.
In order for a person to apply for naturalization, they must be at least 18 years of age. Minors can become citizens, but that process usually depends on being sponsored by a parent. Applicants must also be able to speak, read, and write English fluently.
A person must also show good character, have lived in the U.S. for a specific amount of time, and pass the citizenship exam in order to qualify. A naturalization and citizenship attorney could assist with each of these requirements.
Part of the eligibility requirements involves demonstrating a basic understanding of U.S. civics. This is done by completing and passing an examination designed to test the applicant on their understanding of America’s system of government. The test is in English, which reinforces the need to be fluent.
The good news is that applicants are given access to a master list of 100 potential questions. The test itself involves 10 of those questions selected at random. To pass, a person must have a minimum of six correct answers. The examination process also involves reading aloud and writing out sentences to test a person’s proficiency with the language.
If you believe you are eligible to become a citizen of the United States, you are at the end of a long and remarkable immigration journey. You do not have to take these final steps alone. Call a naturalization and immigration lawyer today for the guidance you deserve.