Understanding the Citizenship Process

There are many different reasons and ways to obtain citizenship in the United States. It is important to understand the best option for you, and the processes involved. Continue reading to learn more about naturalization, how to obtain it, and all the ways it can benefit you.

What are the ways that you can become a citizen of the United States?

There are three primary ways that an individual can obtain their United States citizenship. These include the following:

Family-Based: Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens do not have to wait for a visa. Additionally, there is no limit to the number of visas that can be issued. Immediate relatives include parents of U.S. citizens, spouses of U.S. citizens, and unmarried children under the age of 21 of U.S. citizens.

Employment-Based: Those who seek to become immigrants through employment may apply for permanent residence or an immigrant visa. There are multiple different types of visas available. These include:

• H-1B visas for professional employees
• H-2 visas for nonimmigrant unskilled workers in temporary or seasonal work
• B-1 visas allowing short-term entry for meetings, conferences, seminars, or other events
• TN visas for Mexican or Canadian professionals with sponsors in the U.S. at the time of application
• L-1 visas for executives and managers transferring from other countries to United States’ subsidiaries or regional offices of the employer corporation
• F – M Student visas
• O – Visas
• P – Visa
• R – Religious workers

Refugee/Asylum: Those who were admitted to the U.S. as a refugee, or spouse or child of a refugee, must apply for permanent residency one year after entry into the U.S. If you were granted asylum, or you are a qualifying spouse or child of an asylee, you can apply for permanent residency one year after you are granted asylum status.

Eligibility Requirements

In order to qualify for naturalization:

• You must prove you are committed to the ideals of the U.S. constitution
• Sufficiently read, write, and speak in basic English
• Have a satisfactory understanding of U.S. government and history
• Take an oath of allegiance to the United States, be at least 18 years of age and a permanent resident for at least five years
• Prove continuous residence for at least five years
• Prove to have been physically present in the U.S. for at least 30 months out of the five years
• Have lived for at least three months in the state or district in which you apply
• Demonstrate that you are a person of good character

Benefits of Becoming a Citizen

Becoming a citizen of the United States comes with many benefits, rights, and responsibilities. Some of these rights and responsibilities include:

• The right to vote
• A U.S. passport
• Bring family members to the United States
• Obtaining citizenship for children under the age of 18 years old.
• Apply for federal jobs
• Become an elected official
• Keep your residency
• Qualify for certain federal grants and scholarships
• Obtain government benefits
• Serve on a jury

Contact a NYC Immigration Attorney

At The Law Offices of Cheryl R. David, we understand how important it is for many people in the United States to become citizens once and for all. Our firm takes great joy in helping clients through the naturalization process and is ready to help guide you every step of the way. To learn more about your eligibility for citizenship and naturalization, contact The Law Offices of Cheryl R. David today to discuss your case.

The Law Offices of Cheryl R. David practices immigration law throughout NYC. Immigration is a sensitive issue, which is why you should consider a compassionate, experienced, and aggressive immigration attorney who will guide you every step of the way. If you have questions about your particular matters regarding immigration please do not hesitate to contact our office to discuss your circumstances and options.