Naturalization

Naturalization is the process of becoming a full citizen of the United States after having first obtained Legal Permanent Residence. The requirements to become a naturalized citizen in the United States include:

You must be at least 18 years old.
You must be a permanent resident of the United States for at least 5 years or, if you obtained your green card through marriage to a United States citizen you must be a permanent resident for at least 3 years and reside with that citizen spouse.
You must have lived in your current immigration office district or state for at least 3 months prior to application.
You must have been physically present in the United States for at least 50% of the time during the required 3-year or 5-year period.
You must be able to read, write and speak basic English. If you are over 50 or have a physical and/or mental disability, there are exceptions to this.
You must have a basic understanding of United States history and government, with exceptions if you are over 50 or have a physical and/or mental disability.
You must be of good moral character and you cannot have been convicted of a serious crime, or even many minor offences within the 5-year period prior to applying for naturalization.
You must take an Oath of Allegiance to the United States. The oath is given during a naturalization ceremony at which you will receive your Certificate of Naturalization.

Expedited naturalization may be available as well to those on active duty in the U.S. military, spouses of U.S. citizens employed abroad, and other special circumstances.

Automatic Citizenship

For those born outside the United States to a U.S. Citizen parent, that person might already be a United States citizen and merely needs to obtain documentation to establish it. Children under 18 years of age can acquire U.S. citizenship automatically if one of their parents becomes a citizen through naturalization. Under these scenarios, it may be possible to apply for a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, U.S. Passport or a Certificate of Citizenship instead of applying for naturalization. The rules governing automatic citizenship can be complex, however, so it is important to consult with a knowledgeable attorney first. To discuss Naturalization or Automatic Citizenship in more detail please schedule a consultation or contact Attorney Urbanski.

To discuss Naturalization or Automatic Citizenship in more detail please schedule a consultation or contact Attorney Urbanski.

Naturalization

Naturalization

Automatic Citizenship

Law Offices of Mark A. Urbanski PLLC

u.s. Immigration and Nationality Law Since 1996

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