The United States of America is a country that provides wonderful opportunities to people around the world. As a result, many have shown a desire to immigrate to the U.S. and pursue their dreams.
Immigration is not always an easy process. In fact, naturalization and citizenship is one of the most complex areas of U.S. immigration law. According to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), many applicants who filed their forms on their own are unnecessarily denied or delayed because they failed to follow even simple, necessary procedures.
Let Buhler Thomas Law, P.C. help you. Whether you are applying for a green card for an immediate family member, for yourself, or petitioning on behalf of an employee, our citizenship attorney in Utah is ready to help. We will assist you in obtaining a Certificate of Naturalization in compliance with the immigration policy and regulations.
Eligibility for Naturalization
Naturalization is the process in which the government grants citizenship to a foreign national after fulfilling the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) requirements. This is the final step to becoming a citizen.
Those who wish to apply must have established legal permanent residency and have lived in the country for five continuous years. Spouses of U.S. citizens after receiving permanent residency may apply after living in the country for three years.
Requirements of Citizenship Through Naturalization
The first step to obtaining citizenship is to become a green card holder – or achieve permanent resident status.
You become eligible to apply for naturalization if you meet the following requirements:
- Lived in the country for at least five years;
- Lived in the same state for at least three months;
- Are at least 18 years old;
- Were physically present in the U.S. for at least 30 months during the five years;
- Maintain continuous residence in the U.S. from the application date to acquisition of citizenship/naturalization;
- Can understand, speak, read, and write English;
- Pass the citizenship interview and civics test;
- Has good moral character.
While the USCIS generally investigates back five years for evidence of good character, they can go back further. We suggest being completely honest about past mistakes and have our citizenship attorneys in Utah address those issues through letters of recommendation from people who can attest to good moral character, as well as through appeals and waivers.
Application Process for Naturalization
The process starts with our lawyers determining your eligibility and preparing the necessary forms to submit to USCIS. Once filed, USCIS will inform you that the application is under review. USCIS will then schedule an interview to discuss your candidacy.
Once approved, the final step to achieving U.S. citizenship is to take the Oath of Allegiance at an official naturalization ceremony.
Buhler Thomas Law, P.C. will guide you through the process every step of the way. We will make sure all issues surrounding the process and documents related to visas, permits, and immigration laws are addressed.
Call us today to arrange a discussion with our citizenship lawyers in Utah.
