Boston Citizenship and Naturalization Lawyer

Many people from around the world dream of becoming U.S. citizens. Thousands of Boston green card holders take the Oath of Allegiance each year and proudly become naturalized citizens. This is a big step, but many permanent residents don’t feel like they can fully live the American dream until they’ve become U.S. citizens. While green card holders enjoy many opportunities, they still don’t get the full experience of being part of the American community. If you’re a Boston immigrant who wants more, working with a Boston citizenship and naturalization lawyer can help.

 

Let us guide you through this important step toward living the American dream.

 

Whether you choose to stay close to your roots and build a life in one of Boston’s diverse communities or decide to fully embrace being American, the choice is yours. Boston is a welcoming city with a rich mix of cultures, and MyImmigration would be honored to help you become a U.S. naturalized citizen.

The Benefits and Challenges of Becoming a U.S. Citizen in Boston

For many people, getting a green card is just the beginning of their immigration journey. However, becoming a lawful permanent resident doesn’t automatically mean you can apply for citizenship. You have to apply for citizenship separately, and there are certain requirements you must meet. While it may seem challenging, these obstacles can be overcome with the help of a citizenship and naturalization attorney.

 

As a naturalized citizen, you will enjoy more benefits than you did as a green card holder. Here’s what citizenship offers:

  • The Right to Vote in All Elections: Naturalized U.S. citizens can vote in local, state, and federal elections, giving them a voice in the country’s future.
  • More Federal Job Opportunities: Many federal jobs require applicants to be U.S. citizens, so naturalization opens up more career options.
  • Protection from Deportation: U.S. citizens cannot be deported, so naturalization offers more security and peace of mind.
  • International Travel Benefits: U.S. citizens can travel with a U.S. passport, which allows for easier travel to many countries without the need for a visa.
  • No Need for Green Card Renewal: Green card holders must renew their residency status every ten years, which involves additional fees and paperwork. Naturalized citizens don’t have to worry about this.

Unfortunately, not every green card holder who applies for citizenship will be approved. Some common reasons for rejection include:

  • Failure to Meet Continuous Residence: Spending too much time outside the U.S. (usually six months or more in a year) could cause problems when applying for citizenship.
  • Legal Issues: Any legal problems can delay or prevent citizenship approval.
  • Taxes: Green card holders must file taxes on their worldwide income. Failing to do so could cause issues when applying for citizenship.
  • Errors or Omissions on the Application: Incomplete or incorrect forms can lead to delays or denial.

If you think you might face challenges when applying for citizenship, reach out to one of our citizenship attorneys, who can help address any concerns before you apply.

The Citizenship Process

When a green card holder applies to become a U.S. citizen, it’s called the naturalization process. Whether born in the U.S. or becoming a citizen through naturalization, the rights and benefits are the same. Becoming a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) does not automatically grant citizenship, as certain requirements must be met before someone can apply.

 

Here are the basic requirements:

  • Be at least 18 years old
  • Be a lawful permanent resident (aka green card holder) for at least five years
  • Have lived continuously in the U.S. for at least five years
  • Have lived in the U.S. for at least half of that time
  • Be of good moral character
  • Be able to write, read, and speak basic English
  • Have a basic understanding of U.S. history and government

Once these requirements are met, the naturalization process typically follows these steps:

  1. File for Naturalization: Eligible green card holders can start the process by filing Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization).
  2. Attend Biometrics Appointment: Once your application is approved, you’ll be scheduled to take a photo and fingerprints for a background check.
  3. USCIS Interview: You’ll meet with a USCIS officer, who will ask about your background and why you want to become a U.S. citizen.
  4. Pass Exams: Applicants must pass two exams: an English language test and a civics exam about U.S. history and government.
  5. Take the Oath of Allegiance: After passing the exams, you’ll be invited to a naturalization ceremony, where you’ll take the Oath of Allegiance.
  6. Receive Your Certificate of Naturalization: After the Allegiance ceremony, you’ll get your Certificate of Naturalization, which proves you’re a U.S. citizen. This certificate can be used to apply for a U.S. passport.

Let us help you on your journey to U.S. citizenship in Boston.

Contact a Citizenship and Naturalization Attorney in Boston Today

Nearly a million immigrants become U.S. citizens every year. If you want to join them and enjoy all the benefits that come with citizenship, reach out to one of our citizenship and naturalization lawyers. They would be happy to assist you in this final step of your immigration journey.

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