Becoming a citizen of the United States comes with significant benefits.  For instance, you are no longer at risk of deportation, and you gain the right to participate in the local, state, and federal elections.  Of course, gaining this status does not happen overnight.

A dedicated immigration attorney could help you understand the path to obtaining citizenship.  The process can take years and is never guaranteed to be successful, but strong support can go a long way.  Before you pursue this option alone, consider speaking with a Winter Haven citizenship and naturalization lawyer.

What Is Naturalization?

Only two options exist for becoming a citizen of this country.  For many Americans, citizenship is obtained from the moment they are born in the U.S. or when they are born abroad to American parents.

The second option is naturalization, which is the process that noncitizens must follow.  It begins with an individual going through the process of becoming a Lawful Permanent Resident.  Once enough time passes, typically five years, that person can complete the process of naturalization and remain in the U.S. for the rest of their life.  An attorney in Winter Haven could help you get started on the process of obtaining citizenship.

Qualifications for Citizenship

Before a person can become a citizen of the United States, they need to meet a number of qualifications.  Chief among them is first obtaining Lawful Permanent Residency for at least three or five years, depending on how residency was acquired.  After that time has expired, a citizenship and naturalization lawyer in Winter Haven could guide you through the rest of the process.  Other qualifications include:

  • Applicants must be 18 years of age or older
  • Individuals must also be physically present in the country for a minimum of 30 months prior to filing
  • Applicants must be residents of a state in which he or she has lived for at least three months prior to submitting the application

There are also some general requirements that must be met, including:

  • Individuals must be able to read, write, and speak English
  • Applicants must have a basic understanding of how the U.S. government functions
  • Applicants must demonstrate good moral character, which usually involves avoiding certain criminal convictions

How To Begin the Process

Naturalization starts with submitting a document known as Form N-400 to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).  Once the application is processed, the applicant is asked to appear at a local USCIS office to undergo an interview and test.

If the application is approved, there are only a few things left to do.  The applicant must take the Oath of Allegiance, turn in their green card, and submit some additional paperwork in order to become a citizen of the United States.  In Winter Haven, a citizenship attorney could help prepare you for each of the steps leading up to naturalization.

Work With a Citizenship and Naturalization Lawyer in Winter Haven Today

The naturalization process can change not only your own life, but also the lives of your family as well.  It holds the promise of enabling you to work and live in a country without the fear of deportation.  Let a Winter Haven citizenship and naturalization lawyer assist you with getting started on this important journey.  Call today to learn more.