The latest data shows that there are over 13 million Lawful Permanent Residents (LPR) residing in the United States each year. Of those, over 60% are eligible to become citizens. In many cases, people become wary of the intricate and confusing immigration process, so they decide to not move forward with the citizenship process. Fortunately, there are multiple options that allow for citizenship to be obtained. Though the path is clear, the current immigration laws and procedures are subject to change at any moment. If you are interested in becoming a citizen of the United States, give the attorneys at the Law Offices of Lemuel A. Carlos a call to schedule your initial consultation today. Our attorneys speak multiple languages including Spanish, French, Italian, and Tagalog.
Becoming a Citizen
It may be tempting to “go it alone.” However, any missteps in the process can result in a delay to your application and/or it being denied altogether. It is recommended that those in search of citizenship and naturalization in Scottsdale, AZ connect with a reputable and experienced immigration attorney. Listed below, you will find the necessary steps to take in order to become a citizen.
- You must have a permanent green card for at least five years. If you are the spouse of a citizen of the United States, you may be eligible for an expedited process of naturalization.
- Be older than the age of 18 as well as prove that you can read, write, and speak English. Additionally, criminal records make it very difficult to complete the process.
- Complete the naturalization process (10 steps). This includes completing Form N-400 and completing various other steps.
Those who are married to citizens of the United States are eligible for naturalization three years after they obtain their Lawful Permanent Resident green card. If you are applying for a marriage-based green card, you will be required to provide proof to the USCIS that you are indeed in a bona fide relationship with your spouse.
The Process for Naturalization
The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services outlines a 10 step process that must be completed to obtain citizenship after a green card has been held for the applicable amount of time. In almost all instances, the naturalization process will require you to pass the U.S. naturalization test as well as participate in an interview at a USCIS office. Green card holding immigrants that are interested in learning more about citizenship and naturalization in Scottsdale, AZ are recommended to contact an experienced immigration attorney to help with the process. In addition, a reputable immigration lawyer can help with test and interview preparation.
How to Find an Immigration Lawyer in Scottsdale, AZ
Making the decision to become a citizen of the U.S. is a big first step. The next step is to partner with a reputable immigration lawyer in Scottsdale, AZ that can help walk you through the naturalization process. It is important to conduct independent research to learn more about potential immigration lawyers that you wish to hire. That research can include online reviews, references, checking the attorney’s status with state bar associations, etc. Furthermore, during your initial consultation, pay attention to the level of customer service and professionalism displayed. Be sure to inquire about the attorney’s experience with the family-based immigration services that you need. The Law Offices of Lemuel A. Carlos are experienced with helping all types of immigrants through the citizenship and naturalization process in Scottsdale, AZ. Give us a call to schedule your initial consultation today.