Atlanta Citizenship/Naturalization Lawyer
The prospect of becoming an American citizen is a dream for many people currently living within the United States borders. Every year, more than a half-million candidates are sworn in as naturalized citizens of the United States.
If you are an immigrant seeking citizenship, it might be beneficial to hire an accomplished immigration attorney to use as a resource throughout the process of becoming an American. An experienced Atlanta citizenship/naturalization lawyer could review your documentation and application to give you a better chance at becoming a permanent resident.
Citizenship Applications
Applicants for naturalization can begin the process by contacting the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Petitioners for citizenship must complete and submit an Application for Naturalization, or N-400 form, to USCIS. Applicants can create an online account on the USCIS website and complete the paperwork electronically from their home.
To apply for citizenship, an immigrant must have:
- Reached the age of majority
- Moral character and fitness for naturalization
- The ability to read, write, and speak English
- Owned a green card for at least five years
- Been physically present in the United States during the past month
- Demonstrable knowledge of the United States government and history
Anyone who has questions about their documents or would like advice from a professional while applying online can ask an adept Atlanta citizenship/naturalization attorney for help with their application.
Prerequisite Exceptions for Naturalization
In most cases, a candidate for citizenship must demonstrate proficiency in the English language. USCIS could, however, waive the English proficiency prerequisite for certain individuals.
Green card holders who are more than 50 years old and have resided in the United States for more than 20 years may be able to achieve citizenship even if they are unable to speak and read English. Legal permanent residents who are older than 55 and have been living in America for more than 15 years might also be exempt from the English proficiency standards.
USCIS also may offer a modified version of the government and history test to senior citizen applicants who are older than 65 and have been a permanent resident for more than two decades. A capable citizenship/naturalization lawyer in Atlanta may be well-versed in these exemptions and could be a beneficial resource for older applicants.
Naturalization for Members of the Armed Forces
A member of the armed forces who has honorably served for at least a year might be able to become a naturalized citizen because of their military status. The procedures may begin similarly to other applicants, as a soldier may still be required to submit the N-400 form to USCIS.
In addition, soldiers must ask their branch to supply a certified N-426 form to USCIS which verifies their service in the armed forces. A seasoned attorney who understands the citizenship process may be familiar with other requirements for members of the United States military who are seeking to become naturalized citizens.
Speak with an Atlanta Citizenship/Naturalization Attorney Today
Applying to become a naturalized citizen of the United States can be an exciting opportunity. However, there are multiple steps to the process, and missing one might lead to disappointment.
If you are working toward becoming an American citizen, you might want to contact an Atlanta citizenship/naturalization lawyer. Even if your case has been abandoned by another firm, we could review your situation and help you take the next steps toward becoming an American.
