People who are natives of other countries and want to become U.S. citizens must go through a process called naturalization. 

The naturalization process is complicated.  Many U.S. immigration laws can apply to an individual, based on circumstances surrounding the person’s stay in the United States and whether he or she complied with laws regulating visas and permanent residency.  Since the passage of immigration laws in 1996 and also wide sweeping changes in immigration after 9/11, legal enforcement of immigration rules and regulations stiffened.  A stricter approach to immigration makes it even more important for immigrants to seek legal help when seeking U.S. citizenship through naturalization.

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) oversees the naturalization process.  The first step for naturalization is determining your eligibility.  The USCIS runs background checks through databases that cross-reference other agency information such as the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) or criminal records with law enforcement authorities.  The USCIS carefully reviews your application for citizenship called a Form N-400 and evaluates your answers to their questions to see if you meet qualification requirements to become a citizen.  The USCIS also conducts citizenship tests through an in-person interview that examines your English skills and knowledge of U.S. government and history.

Requirements for naturalization

USCIS requirements for naturalization include:

• 18 years of age or older (some exceptions may apply)
• Adjustment to permanent status and ability to produce a green card
• Continuous residence and physical presence in the United States for a five year period (three years for spouses)
• Residence in a particular USCIS District prior to filing
• A basic ability to read, write, and speak English
• Knowledge and understanding of U.S. history and government
• Good moral character
• Attachment to the principles of the U.S. Constitution
• Favorable disposition toward the United States

What does it mean to be a naturalized citizen?

As a naturalized citizen you enjoy more rights and freedoms than a permanent resident.  You gain the right to vote in public elections and to hold a public office. Social security benefits are granted more readily after citizenship.  You no longer have the restrictions that permanent residents have for traveling abroad or worries that restriction violations can jeopardize lawful permanent resident status.
Find more information about naturalization at the USCIS website for more information.

Effective immigration naturalization service in San Francisco

The Law Offices of Jorge Rodriguez-Choi can help you with San Francisco immigration naturalization.  Because you may not be aware of criminal or immigration laws that can affect your eligibility, always seek legal advice.

Contact our immigration law firm to schedule a free consultation to discuss your immigration case. Call us today at (415) 912-1000.

The Law Offices of Jorge Rodriguez-Choi serves clients in California, Arizona, and Washington including:

• San Francisco Bay Area
• Fresno
• Bakersfield
• Redding
• Phoenix
• Eloy
• Florence
• Los Angeles
• Seattle