Am I Eligible for Citizenship through Naturalization?

Many people from around the world dream of someday making it to the United States to start a new life as immigrants. Many also have a dream of not just coming to America to start a new life but also becoming U.S. citizens. At Miranda, Magden & Miranda, LLP, we have experienced lawyers in the Salinas area to apply for and obtain U.S. citizenship through naturalization.

Eligibility for U.S. Citizenship through Naturalization

Naturalization is the process through which those born outside the United States apply and become U.S. citizens. This process begins with the filing of an N-400 Application for Naturalization with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). However, before applying for citizenship, there are eligibility requirements that must be met before the application is accepted for processing. 

These requirements are as follows:

• Be at least 18 years old when you file your N-400 Application for Naturalization.
• Show that you have been a green card holder for at least five years. It may be possible to require a lesser period for certain classes of applicants, such as spouses of U.S. citizens and military members and their families.
• Show a continuous residence in the U.S. for at least five years immediately before filing your Form N-400.
• Demonstrate that you have been physically present in the U.S. for at least 30 months during the five years immediately before the date you file Form N-400.
• Demonstrate that you have been a resident for at least three months in a state or USCIS district with jurisdiction over your place of residence. (If you are a student and financially dependent on your parents, you may submit your Form N-400 where you go to school or where your family lives).
• Demonstrate that you are a person of good moral character and that you have been a person of good moral character for at least five years immediately before the date you file your N-400 application.
• Show a belief in the ideals and principles of the U.S. Constitution.
• Be able to write, speak, and read basic English.
• Have an understanding and knowledge of the basics of the history and government of the United States (civics); and
• Take an Oath of Allegiance to the United States.

If you meet these requirements, and you originally obtained your permanent resident status (green card) properly, then you are eligible to apply and obtain U.S. citizenship through naturalization. Once you submit your application, you will be asked to have your biometrics taken, and after this is done, you will receive a letter asking you to go to the immigration office near you for a naturalization interview.

It is important to know, however, that even if you meet the eligibility criteria for naturalization, your application can still be denied for other reasons. This is why it is important to consult with an experienced naturalization attorney to make sure you successfully go through the naturalization process.

A Salinas Attorney Can Help

If you are in the Salinas area and wish to apply for U.S. citizenship or wish to know more about what is required to successfully complete the process, contact our office today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help you. Miranda, Magden & Miranda, LLP, can assist you.