Citizenship Attorney Huntersville

Citizenship Attorney Huntersville

Many noncitizens who come to the U.S. on a visa have a dream to become a U.S. citizen someday. Although this is possible under U.S. immigration law for those who qualify, becoming a naturalized U.S. citizen is no easy task. 

At Vestal Immigration Law, we have experienced citizenship attorneys who help clients in Huntersville to successfully navigate this complicated process of becoming U.S. citizens.

Eligibility Requirements for U.S. Citizenship

A noncitizen becomes a U.S. citizen through what is known as the “naturalization” process. This is a process by which a person who was born outside the U.S. applies for U.S. citizenship if they meet specific requirements. The individual must also follow steps set forth in the immigration law administered by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). 

To apply for naturalization as a U.S. citizen, you must:

• Be at least 18 years of age or older when you submit your application.
• Have been a permanent resident (green card holder) for the past three or five years before applying, depending on which category under which you seek naturalization.
• Have continuous physical presence and residence in the U.S.
• Be able to write, read and speak basic English.
• Have good moral character.
• Show an understanding and knowledge of basic U.S. history and government.
• Show loyalty to the principles of the U.S. Constitution; and
• Be willing to take the Oath of Allegiance.

Steps to Naturalization

If you meet the requirements above, then you can start the naturalization process by taking the following steps to get on your journey to becoming a U.S. citizen:

1. Consult an experienced naturalization lawyer. Many people make the mistake of assuming that if they meet the eligibility requirements for naturalization, then naturalization is automatic. This is not the case. Applications for citizenship are routinely denied for all kinds of reasons, even for those who are eligible to apply. This is why it is important to consult an experienced immigration lawyer.
2. Once your naturalization application is submitted, you will receive a notice for your photo and fingerprints (biometrics) to be taken, if necessary. The notice will tell you the date, time, and location where to go to have the biometrics taken.
3. After your biometrics are taken, you will next be scheduled for an interview with a USCIS immigration officer. The officer will ask you questions about your citizenship application to make sure the information is accurate and truthful. 
4. At the end of your interview, the officer will tell you whether your application is approved, or they will tell you a decision will be mailed to you at your home address. Make sure the address is correct and current before leaving the interview.
5. In either case, you will receive a formal decision letter in the mail approving or denying your application. If your application is approved, then you will next receive a letter inviting you to take the Oath of Allegiance. This is the final step in the naturalization process. Your application for citizenship is not complete, and you do not become a naturalized citizen until you take the Oath of Allegiance.