Citizenship
Those born outside the US can become
US citizens via different paths:
- You can become a US citizen automatically if you were born to US citizens
- If you were not born to US citizens but have been a legal permanent resident in the US for several years, you are eligible for the naturalization process
- You can become a US citizen when your parents become US citizens.
No matter the process you need to undertake to become a US citizen, experienced and passionate lawyers at Law Offices of Karen S. Monrreal will guide you through all the steps until you reach the goal of becoming a US citizen.
We know the application for a US citizenship can seem arduous,
but we are here to help you!
Naturalization
Naturalization is the process by which a legal immigrant in the United States obtains United States citizenship. It is granted to a foreign national after he or she meets the requirements established by Congress in the immigration and nationality law.
If you would like to become a citizen, we will help you determine whether you apply for citizenship through naturalization and help you through all the steps of the process, from the application to the final interview. Make an appointment today, and start your path to a full American life!
Transmission of Citizenship
Transmission of citizenship is the process by which a person:
(1) Acquires citizenship because one or both their parents are US citizens or;
(2) Automatically becomes a citizen through the naturalization of their parents. The father or mother can be a citizen by birth or naturalization.
Eligible? Find out today.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the difference between citizenship and naturalization?
Citizenship is the status of being a citizen of a country, while naturalization is the legal process through which a non-citizen acquires citizenship. - Who is eligible for naturalization in the United States?
Permanent residents (green card holders) who have met certain residency and other criteria, such as being at least 18 years old and having lived in the U.S. for at least 5 years, may be eligible for naturalization. - What are the requirements for naturalization?
Requirements include continuous residency, physical presence in the U.S., good moral character, knowledge of English and U.S. history and government, and an attachment to the principles of the U.S. Constitution. - How do I apply for naturalization?
You can apply for naturalization by filing Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). - What is the naturalization test?
The naturalization test consists of an English test (reading, writing, and speaking) and a civics test (knowledge of U.S. history and government). - Can I apply for citizenship if I am married to a U.S. citizen?
Yes, if you are married to a U.S. citizen, you may be eligible for naturalization after three years of permanent residency, instead of the usual five years. - What is dual citizenship?
Dual citizenship is the status of being a citizen of two countries simultaneously. The U.S. allows dual citizenship, but not all countries do. - How long does the naturalization process take?
The processing time for naturalization applications varies, but it generally takes several months to over a year from the time of application to the oath ceremony. - What are the benefits of U.S. citizenship?
Benefits include the right to vote, eligibility for certain government jobs, protection from deportation, and the ability to sponsor relatives for immigration. - Can my children become U.S. citizens if I naturalize?
Children under 18 may automatically acquire U.S. citizenship when a parent naturalizes if they are lawful permanent residents residing in the U.S. - What is a Certificate of Citizenship?
A Certificate of Citizenship is a document issued by USCIS to individuals who acquire or derive U.S. citizenship through their parents after birth. - Can my naturalization be revoked?
Naturalization can be revoked if it was obtained fraudulently or if the individual is convicted of certain crimes, such as treason, within a specified period after naturalization.
We are here to help you!
Start your path to full citizenship today.
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IMMIGRATION ATTORNEYS
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We work tirelessly for our immigrant clients around the world. Our work focuses on the Immigration Laws of the United States.