New Orleans
Naturalization & Citizenship Attorneys
Becoming a U.S. citizen is a dream for many immigrants, but the application for U.S citizenship via naturalization can be challenging.
Pelton + Balducci provides representation in naturalization cases to immigrants throughout Louisiana desiring to become United States citizens.
We have helped hundreds of immigrants achieve naturalization, and we are dedicated to standing by our values and doing everything we can to help you and your loved ones realize your American Dream.
We have helped hundreds of immigrants achieve naturalization, and we are dedicated to standing by our values and doing everything we can to help you and your loved ones realize your American Dream.
Benefits of Naturalization
In addition to being able to proudly announce your U.S. citizenship, naturalization comes with many other benefits, as well.
These include:
- The ability to vote in U.S. elections
- The ability to bring family members to the United States (while other green card holders can petition to bring family members, citizens generally get priority)
- The ability to get a U.S. passport
- The ability to have federal jobs
- The ability to run for office
- The ability to register your foreign-born children as U.S. citizens
The Naturalization Process
People who are not U.S. citizens at birth may become U.S. citizens through a process called naturalization. The process involves several steps and will vary from case to case.
1.
First, you must determine whether you are eligible to apply for citizenship. If you are unsure, our naturalization attorneys are available to help you with this process.
2.
Once it is determined that you are in fact eligible, you will then need to fill out and submit Form N-400, Application for Naturalization.
3.
Along with this form, you will also need to submit several other supporting documents such as a photocopy of your Permanent Resident Card, any arrest records, evidence of Selective Service registration, if applicable, etc.
4.
After you submit your application, you will receive a receipt and may periodically check the status of your application.
3.
Along with this form, you will also need to submit several other supporting documents such as a photocopy of your Permanent Resident Card, any arrest records, evidence of Selective Service registration, if applicable, etc.
4.
After you submit your application, you will receive a receipt and may periodically check the status of your application.
5.
Once your application is processed, an interview will be scheduled on your behalf, and you will need to complete an examination. As part of the naturalization examination by USCIS, an applicant must demonstrate knowledge of the English language and pass a test pertaining to the history and government of the United States. Each applicant is provided with two opportunities to pass the English and Civics exams. You may be able to find study guides and other resources on the USCIS website and at local colleges and community centers.
6.
Following the interview and successful completion of the examination, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service will then notify you of their final decision.
There are four potential outcomes in citizenship cases:
- They will grant you citizenship,
- Ask for additional documentation,
- Require a re-examination if you do not pass the English and Civics exam on the first attempt, or
- Send you a denial.
If your request is granted, you are then required to take an Oath of Allegiance to the United States in order to finalize the naturalization process.
What Are the Requirements for Becoming a U.S. Citizen?
There are several ways to qualify for naturalization. The first qualification is to be a lawful permanent resident of the United States (green card holder).
If you have your green card, you could be eligible to apply for naturalization if:
- You are at least 18 years old;
- You have been a permanent resident in the United States for five years or more;
- You are the spouse of a current citizen and have been a permanent resident for at least three years; or
- You have honorably served in the United States Armed Forces, in which case your naturalization may be expedited.
Once all requirements are met, the process takes about 6 months to a year from the time you apply to obtain citizenship. These timeline estimates often change, however.
What Can Prevent Me from Obtaining Citizenship?
The naturalization process is a lengthy one and a thorough one, and there are some elements that can create problems for your application.
Some of these issues include:
- Arrests or unresolved criminal issues
- Inconsistencies or fraud in previous immigration applications
- Extended absences from the United States while a lawful permanent resident
- Inability to pass the English language or the civics exam
- Unpaid taxes
The USCIS will fully review your background and immigration record. For this reason, it is vital to work with a naturalization attorney who can help ensure your application does not have any inconsistent or incomplete information that can cause delay or rejection.
For applicants who have been lawful permanent residents for many years and are over the age of 50, some exceptions to the requirement to take the full exam apply.
Also, if an applicant has a medical condition that prevents them from learning English or new material, a medical disability waiver may be available so that the health condition (for example, alzheimer’s) does not prevent them from becoming a U.S. citizen if they are otherwise eligible.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is naturalization in the United States?
Naturalization in the United States is the legal process through which a lawful permanent resident becomes a United States citizen. Through naturalization, eligible green card holders apply for citizenship and gain the full rights and responsibilities of United States citizenship.
2. Who is eligible for naturalization in the United States?
Eligibility for naturalization in the United States generally requires that you are at least 18 years old, have held lawful permanent resident status for a required period of time, meet continuous residence and physical presence requirements, demonstrate good moral character, and pass the English and civics test.
3. How long do you have to have a green card before applying for naturalization in the United States?
Most lawful permanent residents must hold a green card for five years before applying for naturalization in the United States. If you are married to a United States citizen, you may qualify to apply after three years if all other requirements are met.
4. What is Form N 400 for naturalization in the United States?
Form N 400 is the official Application for Naturalization filed with United States Citizenship and Immigration Services. Filing Form N 400 begins the naturalization process and requires detailed information about your residence, employment history, and immigration background.
5. What happens after filing a naturalization application in the United States?
After filing a naturalization application, you will receive a receipt notice and attend a biometrics appointment. You will then be scheduled for a naturalization interview where your eligibility will be reviewed and you will complete the English and civics test.
6. What is the naturalization interview like in the United States?
The naturalization interview includes a review of your Form N 400 application, questions about your background, and testing on English language skills and United States civics knowledge. The interview allows the immigration officer to confirm that you meet all requirements for citizenship.
7. What is the English and civics test for naturalization in the United States?
The English and civics test is part of the naturalization process in the United States. Applicants must demonstrate basic English reading, writing, and speaking ability and answer questions about United States history and government.
8. How long does the naturalization process take in the United States?
The timeline for naturalization in the United States varies depending on location and government processing times. Many applicants complete the process within several months, but timelines can differ based on case volume and individual circumstances.
9. Can a naturalization application be denied in the United States?
Yes. A naturalization application can be denied if eligibility requirements are not met or if there are concerns related to criminal history, prior immigration issues, or incomplete documentation. Careful preparation can help reduce the risk of denial.
10. What are the benefits of naturalization in the United States?
The benefits of naturalization in the United States include the right to vote, eligibility for a United States passport, the ability to sponsor certain family members for immigration, and increased protection from removal. Citizenship provides greater long-term stability and security.
11. Do you need a naturalization lawyer for citizenship in the United States?
While it is possible to apply without legal representation, working with a naturalization lawyer in the United States can help ensure your application is accurate and complete. Legal guidance can also help identify potential issues before filing.
12. What happens after you are approved for naturalization in the United States?
After approval of your naturalization application, you will attend an oath ceremony where you take the Oath of Allegiance. Once the oath is completed, you officially become a United States citizen and may apply for a United States passport.
Contact a New Orleans naturalization attorney today
If you meet the eligibility requirements and are interested in going through the naturalization process, contact Pelton + Balducci today at (504) 708-5400 to schedule a consultation. Our entire team is fluent in Spanish, and we also work with translators when necessary. We look forward to working with you.
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