Citizenship Lawyer Miami

So many people from all parts of the world long to become United States citizens. The land of the red, white, and blue has so many opportunities and the freedoms that many long for. It’s a long journey to citizenship that starts with entering the country on some kind of visa. However, for those who have made the journey and eventually became permanent residents, the last step of their American dream is to become naturalized citizens. With help from a Miami citizenship lawyer, you can join the many who’ve taken the oath of allegiance.

 

Let us help you take this big step toward living the American dream.

 

The United States naturalization process (citizenship) should not be taken lightly. MyImmigration would be proud to help you prepare for the naturalization process. Let us help you take the last steps of your journey.

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

After obtaining a green card, some long to be card-carrying United States citizens. To do so, there are a few more challenges to face. While green card holders gain many benefits, to fully have the American experience and receive all the rights and privileges this great nation has to offer requires becoming a citizen.

 

U.S. citizenship has these additional benefits:

  • Voting Rights: Naturalized U.S. citizens can vote in all elections, giving them a say in who governs the nation.
  • Federal Job Opportunities: Some federal jobs require U.S. citizenship. Naturalization provides a broader range of job opportunities.
  • Protection from Deportation: United States citizens cannot be deported, and naturalization provides a deeper level of security and protection.
  • Travel Benefits: A United States passport doesn’t have the restrictions that some from other countries have. Many countries don’t require visas for U.S. citizens.
  • No Need to Renew Status: Green card holders must renew their residency status every ten years, which involves fees and processing time.

However, for some, there are some obstacles in the way that can make applying for citizenship difficult:

  • Failure to Meet Continuous Residence: Spending too much time outside the country (six months or more in a year) could cause problems when applying for citizenship.
  • Legal Issues: Any legal problems could cause your citizenship application to be delayed or denied.
  • Taxes: Green card holders must file U.S. taxes on their yearly income, even if it comes from outside the country. Failure to do so can cause problems when applying for naturalization.
  • Errors or Omissions on the Application: Incomplete forms or those with errors and inconsistencies can cause delays or denial.

If you have any of these issues, speak to one of our experienced Miami citizenship attorneys, and they’ll determine the best strategy to overcome them.

The Citizenship Process

When a green card holder applies for U.S. citizenship, it’s known as the naturalization process or becoming a naturalized citizen. Naturalization citizens are entitled to the same opportunities and benefits as birthright citizenship. However, not all green card holders are eligible for naturalization. The eligibility requirements for U.S. citizenship include:

  • Only applicants over 18 years old can apply for naturalization
  • Must be a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) for at least five years
  • Must have continuous residency in the United States for a minimum of five years
  • Must have lived continuously in the United States for at least half of the time in the country
  • Be of good moral character
  • Must be able to write, read, and speak basic English
  • Must have a basic understanding of U.S. history and government

The naturalization process typically follows these steps:

  1. Filing: Eligible green card holders must first file Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization).
  2. Biometrics appointment: If the application is accepted, you’ll receive an appointment to have a photo and fingerprints taken to be used for a background check.
  3. USCIS interview: You’ll be scheduled to meet with a USCIS officer for a face-to-face interview, where you’ll be asked questions about your history and the reasons why you want to become a U.S. citizen.
  4. Exams: Applicants must pass an English language and United States civics exams. The language exam will test your basic understanding of English, while the civics exam will test your knowledge of United States history and government.
  5. Take the oath of allegiance: If the application is accepted and you’ve passed the exams, you’ll be notified to attend a naturalization ceremony where you will take the Oath of Allegiance.
  6. Certificate of naturalization: Shortly after the naturalization ceremony, you’ll receive this document. It’s proof you are a citizen of the United States and can be used to apply for a U.S. passport.

Contact a Citizenship Attorney Today

Becoming a naturalized United States citizen is the best way to fully experience the American dream with all the freedoms and benefits it provides. Nearly a million green card holders take the Oath of Allegiance each year to become U.S. citizens. If you’re eligible, why not join them? 


Schedule an appointment with a citizenship lawyer today and enjoy all the benefits of being a United States citizen.