If you are 18 years or older and have been a lawful permanent resident for the past 5 years, you are eligible.
If you are at least 18 years old and are currently married to and living with a U.S. citizen and have been married to a U.S. citizen in the past three years, your spouse has been a U.S. citizen for the past three years, and you have been a continuous permanent resident for three years without leaving the United States for trips longer than 6 months.
There are other requirements if you do not fall under the above, contact an immigration attorney to speak about your specific eligibility for naturalization.
How do I prepare for the Naturalization process?
Complete your N-400 application with the help of an immigration attorney and make sure all the information on the application is accurate. Go through the entire application with the immigration attorney to make sure you have understood everything. Get two passport style photographs taken. Collect all your necessary documents, evidence, photographs and fees and send them to USCIS. Make sure to get your biometrics done.
Receive your appointment for the interview. Bring all the necessary identification for the interview along with documents. Answer questions about your background and your application. Prepare for the interview by taking and studying for the English and civics tests..
You will receive a case status. With this you will receive a ceremony date. Check in at the ceremony and return your permanent resident card. Answer questions about any updates and what you have done since the interview. Take the Oath of Allegiance. Receive your Certificate of Naturalization.
Congratulations!
What do I get from being a United States Citizen?
1) You get to vote. Only citizens of the United States can vote in federal elections.
2) You can bring other immediate relatives/family members to the United States. You can petition them for lawful permanent residence status and have a visa available immediately.
3) If your child is born in a different country, you can get obtain a citizenship for them. If you are a U.S. citizen and a child is born abroad, your child is also a U.S. citizen.
4) You can run for office and become a publicly elected official.
5) You are eligible for government jobs. Most jobs with government agencies require U.S. citizenship.
6) You can travel with a U.S. passport and get U.S. assistance abroad.
What responsibilities do I have as a United States Citizen?
By taking the Oath of Allegiance, a copy of which is also on your N-400 form, you are giving up all prior allegiance to other countries. You are stating that you will serve the country when it is required. You support and defend the Constitution and the laws of the United States. Have tolerance for all the other cultures, ethnic groups, and religions in this country. The responsibility to vote and take part in the political process is afforded to you. Also serving in a jury is a responsibility you have as a United States Citizen.
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