Getting ready to become a United States Citizen
Before you apply for naturalization, you must carefully determine whether you meet specific requirements. Depending on the individual’s situation, there are different requirements that may apply. In general you must:
● Be at least 18 years old at the time of filing Form N-400, Application for Naturalization.
● Be a permanent resident (have a “Green Card”) for at least 5 years or 3 years depending on how you became a Lawful Permanent Resident.
● Show that you have lived for at least 3 months in the state or USCIS district where you apply.
● Demonstrate continuous residence in the United States for at least 5 years immediately preceding the date of filing Form N-400.
● Show that you have been physically present in the United States for at least 30 months out of the 5 years immediately preceding the date of filing Form N-400.
● Be able to read, write, and speak basic English. There are some exemptions of the examination in English or all together if you have a disability that precludes you from learning English or studying..
● Have a basic understanding of U.S. history and government (civics).
● Be a person of good moral character.
● Demonstrate an attachment to the principles and ideals of the U.S. Constitution.
Ms. Parras excels at full-service representation for clients in a broad range of naturalization cases such as:
● Citizenship for children born outside of the country, in situations where one or both parents are already citizens
● Filing for certificate of citizenship or U.S. passport
● Citizenship by “derivation” through naturalization or U.S. birth of one parent
● Submission of naturalization petitions to authorities such as United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) See video about the revised Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, and Form instructions. This video will show you some of the updates that will make it easier to complete the form.
Applicants for naturalization must establish evidence of good moral character for the statutory period. Conduct and acts prior to that period may be researched and examined by the Department of Homeland Security. Failure to support dependents and accumulation of criminal convictions may subject the applicant to a denial of a petition, and cause him or her to be considered for removal (deportation) from the country.
Do you have questions about the citizenship and naturalization legal process? Temporary and permanent residents alike should contact the Law Office of Sonia Parras, PLLC, in Des Moines.