Naturalization and Citizenship Attorney
For those living in the U.S. as permanent residents, citizenship is frequently a goal. However, Green Card holders not under a specialized visa often face an uphill battle in achieving citizenship, due to the complex processes governing U.S. immigration.
Naturalization can make immigration much easier for those who qualify, providing a dedicated and specific path to citizenship. While the requirements are strict, many permanent residents are eligible. If you are considering seeking citizenship via naturalization, the Law Offices of Fred Voigtmann can help you file all required forms and study for the citizenship test to increase your chances of a successful application and you can also get information about non-immigrant visa in Los Angeles
What Is Naturalization?
Simply put, naturalization is the process of achieving citizenship for those who are already lawful residents of the United States. The criteria for naturalization include:
- U.S. lawful permanent resident for at least five years, or three years if living in marital union with U.S. citizen spouse
- Physically present in the U.S. for at least half the time, with no absences of more than 180 days
- Possesses good moral character
- Speaks, reads, and writes English (with certain age exceptions)
- Passes a test on U.S. history and civics
There are other complex rules about driving or acquiring U.S. citizenship at birth through parents or grandparents. There are various rules about physical presence and retention requirements, depending upon the relationship and the parties’ respective dates of birth. If your biological or adoptive parents became citizens before you turned 18, you may be eligible for citizenship without going through the naturalization process.
The Naturalization Test
The naturalization test is intended to demonstrate that new citizens are well versed in the history of the U.S. and the functions of the U.S. government. Most questions included in the test cover material taught in primary or secondary school to American students, and are generally rather routine. Questions can include a wide variety of content matter, and may cover both prior and current political scenarios, like the reasons behind the Revolutionary War or the name of the Vice President.
In a naturalization test, a USCIS officer will ask up to 10 questions from a list of 100 current test questions. At least 6 of 10 questions must be answered correctly. All test questions are given in English under normal circumstances, although there are exceptions that can result in test administration in a mother tongue.
Seeking Naturalization
If you are considering citizenship via naturalization, the Law Offices of Fred Voigtmann can help you complete the process. We are highly experienced in the naturalization law in los angeles and regulations surrounding naturalization and are prepared to work with you to complete paperwork, file necessary forms, prove your eligibility, and help you study to pass the naturalization test.
If you aren’t sure you are eligible for naturalization, we’re happy to help with a complimentary case evaluation to determine the best path toward citizenship for you. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you become a citizen of the United States of America.
Call today for a naturalization case evaluation!