Becoming A U.S. Citizen

By: Anthony Cooper

Deciding to become a U.S. citizen is one of the most important decisions an immigrant can make. The process of applying for U.S. Citizenship is called Naturalization. Naturalization is the way that a noncitizen not born in the United States voluntarily becomes a U.S. citizen. It offers certain benefits such as the right to vote in federal elections, expedited process to bring certain family members to the U.S., children may automatically become U.S. citizens, travel with a U.S. passport, run for elective office where citizenship is required, be eligible for federal and certain law enforcement jobs, and receive certain state and federal benefits not available to noncitizens. In general, the applicant must demonstrate the ability to read, write, and speak basic English; know and understand the fundamentals of United States history and of the principles and form of government of the U.S.; and take an Oath of Allegiance to the U.S.

In some cases, a person may be naturalized by operation of law. This is often referred to as deriving citizenship. For example, foreign-born children of U.S. citizens by birth or naturalization may fall into this category. As such, one of the first steps is to determine your eligibility.

You may be eligible for naturalization if you are:

1. a lawful permanent resident for at least five years, and at least 18 years when you apply;

2. Married and living with your U.S. Citizen spouse for at least three years immediately before and during the naturalization process; or

3. Members of the U.S. military and their families may be eligible for naturalization and qualified for an expedited naturalization process.

Military members that served honorably in the U.S. military for at least one year at any time, may be eligible to apply for naturalization. Additionally, members who served honorably in an active-duty status in the U.S. military during a specified period of military hostilities and died because of injury or disease incurred may also be eligible for posthumous citizenship.

The Process

The process of becoming a U.S. Citizen can be complex and varies based on the category under which you’re applying. Each category has specific steps and procedures to follow. In general, you must determine your eligibility, then petition for Naturalization based on your eligibility. At Boppre Law Firm, we have knowledgeable, experienced counsel, who will guide you every step of the way. Check us out online or call us today.