Naturalization

Our team has over 30 years of experience in obtaining U.S. citizenship for our clients. At our firm, you will be surrounded by a team of attorneys dedicated to meet your goal of becoming a Naturalized citizen of the U.S. and will be by your side every step of the way including your interview in front of a USCIS Officer.

Eligibility for Naturalization:

To be eligible to naturalize and become a full citizen of the U.S., the general requirements are:

• You are at least 18 years of age
• A green card holder for at least 3 or 5 years (depending on how you are applying)
• Have maintained continuous physical presence in the U.S. for 30 months or longer from the date of filing
• Have continuously resided in the U.S. for the required statutory period
• Are a person of good moral character
• Able to pass English Test (with some exceptions)
• Able to pass the civics exam (with some exemptions)
• Have lived in the U.S. and the state from which you file your naturalization application for at least three months before filing; and
• Support the Constitution and form of government of the U.S.

If you have any questions about your eligibility or anything related to the process of becoming a Naturalized citizen of the U.S. please do not hesitate to contact our office. We are here to help.

Understanding Naturalization In The United States

A Los Angeles naturalization attorney will tell clients that naturalization holds a special place in the realm of immigration law. It is the ultimate goal for many individuals who come to the United States seeking a new beginning and a brighter future. In this comprehensive discussion, we will delve into the intricacies of naturalization, shedding light on the process, requirements, and the importance of consulting with an attorney to navigate this complex path successfully.

The Path To U.S. Citizenship

Naturalization is the process through which foreign-born individuals can become U.S. citizens. It is a significant milestone that grants them the full rights and privileges of American citizenship, including the right to vote and the ability to sponsor family members for immigration.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for naturalization, applicants must meet certain eligibility criteria. These criteria include:

• Permanent Residency: Applicants must have held a valid green card, or Permanent Resident Card, for at least five years (or three years if married to a U.S. citizen).
• Physical Presence: During the five-year period (or three years for spouses of U.S. citizens), the applicant must have been physically present in the United States for at least half of the time.
• Continuous Residence: Continuous residence means maintaining your primary residence in the United States. Extended trips abroad can disrupt this continuity.
• Good Moral Character: Applicants are expected to demonstrate good moral character. Criminal convictions, tax evasion, or fraudulent activities may negatively impact an application.
• Knowledge of English and U.S. Government: Applicants must pass an English and civics test unless they qualify for an exemption.

Navigating The Naturalization Process

The naturalization process involves a series of steps, starting with the submission of Form N-400, the Application for Naturalization. One crucial component of a successful application is gathering all necessary documentation and completing this form accurately.

After submitting the application, applicants will be scheduled for an interview and a civics and English language test. The interview assesses an applicant’s understanding of the English language and their knowledge of U.S. government and history. For some, this can be a daunting task, which is why the guidance of a Los Angeles naturalization attorney can be invaluable.

Why Legal Assistance Matters

Navigating the naturalization process alone can be challenging. Immigration laws are complex and subject to change. Moreover, each applicant’s case is unique, and the process can be influenced by factors such as criminal history, prior immigration violations, and eligibility waivers.

This is where the Bolour / Carl Immigration Group, APC comes into play. We understand that obtaining U.S. citizenship is a dream for many, and we are committed to helping our clients turn that dream into a reality. Our legal professionals have a deep understanding of immigration laws and extensive experience in handling naturalization cases.

The Benefits Of U.S. Citizenship

Becoming a U.S. citizen offers numerous advantages. Citizens have the right to vote in federal elections, which allows them to actively participate in shaping the nation’s future. Additionally, they can sponsor family members for immigration, providing opportunities for loved ones to join them in the United States.

Furthermore, U.S. citizens are protected from deportation, as they cannot lose their citizenship status unless it was obtained through fraud. This security provides peace of mind and stability for individuals and their families.

Taking The Next Step

Understanding naturalization in the United States is pivotal for those on the path to becoming citizens. It is a journey that requires meeting specific eligibility criteria, passing tests, and adhering to immigration laws. For individuals seeking guidance and support through this process, our firm stands ready to assist.

Our experienced attorneys are here to help you navigate the complexities of naturalization law and guide you towards achieving your goal of U.S. citizenship. Contact us today to take the first step towards your American dream.

When encroaching upon the naturalization process, it’s important to navigate the complexities with a legal professional. Contact the Los Angeles naturalization attorney experts at Bolour / Carl Immigration Group, APC for personalized guidance and a smoother path to U.S. citizenship. Your dream of becoming a U.S. citizen is within reach – reach out to us today!

Reasons A Naturalization Case May Be Delayed

Naturalization is a major milestone, but delays happen. At Bolour / Carl Immigration Group, APC, we’ve spent 29 years helping our clients start new lives in the United States, and we’re familiar with all the reasons you may be kept waiting longer than usual. Read on to get up to speed, and contact us today to get things moving.

1. Missing Or Incomplete Paperwork

One of the first things immigration officers check is whether all the required documents are present and filled out correctly. If something is missing or unclear, it can stall your case. It’s important to double-check the application, supporting documents, and all signatures before submitting.

2. Background Checks Take Longer Than Usual

Every applicant goes through a background check. This can include fingerprinting, reviewing records with various agencies, and confirming identity. If something needs further review—such as a prior arrest, even if it didn’t lead to charges—it can cause a delay.

3. Address Changes Without Notice

If you move after applying and don’t report your new address, the government may send important letters to the wrong place. Missed appointments or requests for more documents can cause delays or even lead to denial. Always keep your contact information up to date.

4. Delays With Biometrics Appointments

You’ll be scheduled for a fingerprinting appointment early in the process. If the appointment is missed, or if there’s a backlog at the processing center, this step alone can hold things up. Rescheduling or following up quickly can help get things back on track.

5. Inconsistencies In Your Application Or Interview

If your answers on the form don’t match your answers at the interview, or if your immigration history has gaps or red flags, officers may take more time to review. This doesn’t automatically mean your case will be denied, but it can extend the timeline.

6. Delays In Scheduling The Interview

Sometimes the delay isn’t about you at all—it’s about the local office’s schedule. If your field office is backlogged or understaffed, it might take several months just to get an interview date. Unfortunately, this is a common reason for slowdowns.

7. Pending Information From Other Agencies

Your case might depend on confirmation from another government office. For example, USCIS might wait on files from another agency if you’ve been in the U.S. under different programs or visas. That back-and-forth can stretch things out.

8. Travel Outside The U.S. After Filing

If you travel abroad after submitting your application, it could cause confusion or concern about your intent to live permanently in the U.S. While travel isn’t always a problem, it’s something to talk with a legal team about before booking a trip.

9. Missed Deadlines Or Appointments

Failing to respond to requests for more documents or missing a scheduled interview can stop your case in its tracks. Even if the delay was not your fault, it’s up to you to respond quickly and ask for rescheduling when needed. Fortunately, a legal team that assists with naturalization can keep you in the loop.

Contact Us Today

At Bolour / Carl Immigration Group, APC, we helped clients with immigration, visas, deportation defense, and more. If you’re facing delays with naturalization, contact us today to get back on the right track.