If you are looking to become a naturalized citizen of the United States, you can rely on a competent Fairfax citizenship & naturalization lawyer right here at Lightman Law Firm to efficiently guide you through each step of the process. Contact our legal team today to discuss your case.
Do I Need a Fairfax Citizenship & Naturalization Lawyer?
Many people think that they don’t necessarily need an attorney to help them through the naturalization process. The truth, however, is that filing an N-400 application for naturalization and all that will follow can be quite complex to face on your own. That being said, with our seasoned Fairfax immigration lawyers on your side, you can rest assured, knowing your case is in good hands.
Can I Become a U.S. Citizen?
Unfortunately, becoming a United States citizen is far more simple than the act of applying. The United States has very strict criteria in place when it comes to qualifying for naturalization. Only those over the age of 18 and who have met the following standards may qualify:
- They’ve held permanent residence status for at least five years and have lived in the United States for those five consecutive years.
- They’ve lived in the United States for at least for years as an asylee
- They have married a United States citizen and lived in the U.S. for at least three consecutive years.
- They are permanent residents, have lived in the U.S. for three years, and they have served in the military.
You should note, to be a naturalized United States citizen, you will have to meet various other criteria, including the following:
- You must continuously live in the United States for a period of time. Anyone who leaves the U.S. for more than one year will no longer qualify. Additionally, anyone who leaves for less thansix months may also face a disruption in the “continuity of residence” requirement needed for naturalization.
- Most people will have to pass both English and civil examinations. If you are over the age of 55 and have lived in the U.S. for 15 years, you will not have to take the English portion of the test.
- The same is true for those over the age of 50 who’ve lived in the United States for at least 20 years.
You must prove that you are of good moral character. Simply put, this means that you cannot have been convicted of certain crimes in the past, such as a significant drug crime. These crimes are deemed crimes of “moral turpitude.”.
What Happens Once I’m a U.S. Citizen?
Once you are a United States citizen, you will be afforded various rights and responsibilities. These rights and responsibilities are not to be taken lightly. Once you are a U.S. citizen, you can:
- Vote in elections
- Keep your residency here in the U.S.
- Travel with a U.S. passport
- Serve on juries
- Become an elected official
- Qualify for certain government benefits
- Bring certain family members into the United States
- Apply for federal jobs
- Receive federal grants and scholarships
Contact a Fairfax Citizenship & Naturalization Lawyer
Over the years, the legal team here at Lightman Law Firm has dedicated itself to helping people just like you gain their citizenship. If you believe you may qualify or you would like to get started, simply contact us today to schedule your initial consultation with our experienced firm.