U.S. Citizenship & Naturalization
Embark on your journey to U.S. citizenship with Sharma-Crawford Attorneys at Law. Our team offers expert, comprehensive guidance through the naturalization process, simplifying complex requirements for a smooth path to achieving your American dream. With personalized attention at every step, we ensure your path to U.S. citizenship is clear and well-supported.
Key Requirements for U.S. Citizenship
Residency Requirements: Applicants typically need to have been permanent residents (Green Card holders) for at least 5 years. This period is reduced to 3 years for those married to U.S. citizens. Continuous residence and physical presence in the U.S. are mandatory, with specific time requirements to be met.
Good Moral Character: Demonstrating good moral character is a fundamental requirement. This includes having a clean criminal record and adhering to all U.S. laws during the residency period.
English Proficiency and Civics Knowledge: Applicants are required to pass an English test, covering reading, writing, and speaking skills. A civics test is also mandatory, assessing knowledge of U.S. history and government principles.
Special Considerations: Certain exceptions and accommodations exist, such as age-related exemptions from language requirements and modifications for the civics test.
Crucial Steps to Achieving U.S. Citizenship
Filing the Application (Form N-400): The journey to citizenship begins with filing Form N-400, Application for Naturalization. This form requires detailed information about your background, residence, and time spent outside the United States.
Biometrics Appointment: After submitting the application, you will be scheduled for a biometrics appointment to provide fingerprints, which are used for a background check.
Interview and Citizenship Test: Once the background check is complete, you will be called for an interview with a USCIS officer. During this interview, you will also take the English and civics tests, unless exempted.
Decision on Application: USCIS will make a decision on your application based on all the information and evidence provided, including the results of your interview and tests.
Oath of Allegiance Ceremony: If approved, the final step is the Oath of Allegiance ceremony. Here, you will swear allegiance to the United States and receive your Certificate of Naturalization, officially becoming a U.S. citizen.
Advantages of Becoming a U.S. Citizen
Voting Rights: One of the most significant benefits of U.S. citizenship is the right to vote in federal elections, a fundamental aspect of participation in the democratic process in America.
Eligibility for Federal Jobs and Elected Office: U.S. citizens have exclusive eligibility for federal employment and can run for elected office, offering opportunities to contribute to government and public service.
Protection from Deportation: As a U.S. citizen, you are protected from deportation. Citizenship provides a secure status in the U.S., unlike permanent residents who can face deportation under certain circumstances.
Family Sponsorship: U.S. citizens can sponsor a broader range of family members for immigration to the United States, including siblings and married children, with shorter waiting periods.
Travel Benefits: U.S. passport holders enjoy ease of travel to many countries without the need for visas and can receive assistance from U.S. embassies and consulates while abroad.
Access to Social Benefits: Citizens have access to full social benefits, including certain educational scholarships, grants, and government welfare benefits.
Dual Citizenship: The United States allows dual citizenship, offering the advantage of maintaining citizenship in another country while enjoying the benefits of U.S. citizenship.
How Sharma-Crawford Attorneys at Law Can Help
Comprehensive Application Assistance: Sharma-Crawford Attorneys at Law excels in meticulously preparing and filing your Form N-400, Application for Naturalization. Our team focuses on ensuring every aspect of your application is thorough and precise, reducing the likelihood of any delays or rejections.
Interview and Test Readiness: We offer individualized coaching for the naturalization interview and test. Our preparation encompasses practice interviews, study resources for the English and civics tests, and tactics for confidently addressing typical interview queries.
Expertise in Complex Cases: Our proficiency includes handling intricate naturalization cases, such as those involving extended absences from the U.S., rectifying application inconsistencies, or addressing issues related to good moral character.
Ongoing Support and Representation: From your first consultation to the Oath of Allegiance ceremony, Sharma-Crawford Attorneys at Law provides unwavering support. We represent and guide you throughout the process, keeping you updated and ensuring a seamless journey to U.S. citizenship.
Personalized Legal Strategy: Recognizing the uniqueness of each client's situation, we craft a personalized legal strategy that aligns with your individual circumstances and immigration aspirations.
Overcoming Hurdles in the Naturalization Process
Addressing Continuous Residency Issues: A key challenge in the naturalization process is establishing continuous residency in the U.S. For applicants who have spent considerable time abroad, Sharma-Crawford Attorneys at Law aids in documenting physical presence and resolving any residency gaps that might cause concerns.
Preparing for English and Civics Tests: The English and civics tests are critical components of the naturalization process. Our firm provides comprehensive resources and training to help clients effectively prepare for these exams, ensuring they possess the necessary knowledge and confidence.
Resolving Good Moral Character Issues: Past legal issues can affect an applicant's demonstration of good moral character. We offer legal guidance and support to address these concerns, helping clients present a compelling case to USCIS.
Navigating Complex Legal Scenarios: Applicants with intricate legal backgrounds or unique immigration stories may face additional scrutiny. Our experienced team has a reputation in managing such complexities, devising strategic solutions to effectively navigate these challenges.
Mitigating Administrative and Procedural Delays: Processing delays and administrative obstacles can extend the naturalization timeline. Sharma-Crawford Attorneys at Law proactively communicates with USCIS, advocating on behalf of our clients to reduce unnecessary delays.
From our Clients: Real Success Stories
Contact Us
From the Heartland to wherever you may be. We’re here for you.
The choice of a lawyer is an important decision and should not be based solely on advertisements.
Past results afford no guarantee of future results. Every case is different and must be judged on its own merits.
Call us Today
- 515 Avenida Cesar Chavez | Kansas City, MO 64108
- (816).994.2300
- Mon - Fri 8:30am - 5:00pm
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is U.S. Citizenship?
U.S. Citizenship is the legal status of being a full member of the United States, granting individuals all rights and duties under the U.S. Constitution, including voting, working, permanent residency, and federal benefits. It can be acquired by birth, through parents, or by naturalization, reflecting a commitment to American values.
What is naturalization?
Naturalization is the legal process by which a foreign national voluntarily becomes a U.S. citizen, fulfilling requirements of residency, character, language, and knowledge of U.S. government and history. It grants full U.S. citizenship rights and signifies a bond with American principles.
What is Form N-400?
Form N-400, titled “Application for Naturalization”, is the official application for foreign nationals to seek U.S. citizenship via naturalization. This form includes questions about the applicant’s background, residency, moral character, and understanding of U.S. civics. Successfully filing and processing Form N-400, followed by an interview and civics test, culminates in the granting of U.S. citizenship to the applicant.
Who is eligible for naturalization?
Naturalization eligibility requires that an individual must be at least 18 years of age, holding a Green Card for 5 years (or 3 if married to a U.S. citizen), demonstrate continuous U.S. residency, good moral character, basic English and civics knowledge, and allegiance to the U.S. Constitution. Specific situations may have additional requirements or exceptions. Schedule a consultation with one of the immigration attorneys at Sharma-Crawford for guidance on your individual situation.