Jacksonville Citizenship Attorney | Mulder Law
Naturalization is the process through which a foreign citizen or national can become a US citizen. While the specifics may vary depending on how the LPR status was acquired, the general process involves meeting certain eligibility criteria, such as residency requirements, good moral character, and proficiency in the English language and/or knowledge of US history and government.
Typically, the process includes the following steps:
Eligibility Check: The applicant must verify that they meet the eligibility criteria for naturalization in the country where they wish to become a citizen. This may include factors such as length of residency, criminal history, and language proficiency.
Application Submission: The applicant submits an application for naturalization to the appropriate government agency - usually the USCIS. This involves filling out forms, providing documentation (such as birth certificates, passports, and proof of residency), and paying any required fees.
Background Check and Interview: The applicant undergoes a background check to verify their identity, criminal history, and other relevant information. They may also be required to attend an interview with immigration officials to assess their eligibility and sincerity in seeking citizenship. A background check that reveals a criminal history does not necessarily disqualify the applicant from citizenship but it does bring into question the requirement of good moral charachter if the criminal history was not disclosed in the application.
Citizenship Test: Applicants are required to pass a citizenship test that evaluates their knowledge of US history, government, and laws. This test is written and oral. There are exceptions based on age and mental or physical capacity. The requirement of knowing English is not just to pass the test but to actively take part in the citizenship interview.
Oath of Allegiance: If the applicant meets all requirements and is approved for naturalization, the applicant must take an oath of allegiance to the USA. This oath involves renouncing allegiance to any other countries and pledging loyalty to the USA. The applicant is not a US citizen until the oath has been taken.
Issuance of Citizenship Certificate: After taking the oath of allegiance, the applicant receives a certificate of citizenship as proof of their new status.
Kyndra L Mulder, Esquire has been a licensed attorney for over 37 years and focuses on U.S. Citizenship and Naturalization.
