Naturalization and Citizenship

U.S. Citizenship is obtained either by birth or naturalization.  You may become a U.S. citizen after birth either through your parents, or by applying for naturalization on your own.  There are a number of reasons and benefits to becoming a U.S. citizen, such as the ability to petition for your family members, obtaining government benefits, federal grants and scholarships, higher estate tax exemptions, federal job benefits, greater freedom of travel and the right to vote.  
To be eligible for naturalization under section 316(a) of the INA, an applicant must:

• Be 18 or older
• Be a permanent resident (green card holder) for at least 5 years  immediately preceding the date of filing the Form N-400, Application for Naturalization
• Have lived within the state, or USCIS district with jurisdiction over the applicant’s place of residence, for at least 3 months prior to the date of filing the application
• Have continuous residence in the United States as a permanent resident for at least 5 years immediately preceding the date of the filing the application
• Be physically present in the United States for at least 30 months out of the 5 years immediately preceding the date of filing the application
• Reside continuously within the United States from the date of application for naturalization up to the time of naturalization
• Be able to read, write, and speak English and have knowledge and an understanding of U.S. history and government (civics).
• Be a person of good moral character, attached to the principles of the Constitution of the United States, and well disposed to the good order and happiness of the United States during  all relevant periods under the law

Fore more information and to determine if you are eligible to become a US citizen, please contact our office http://stonehavenlaw.com/contact_us.html to set up a free consultation. 

Disclaimer: The information provided here is of a general nature.  It should not be construed as legal advice and does not constitute an engagement of the Stone Haven Law Group or establish an attorney-client relationship.