Citizenship and Naturalization Lawyers

The right to vote, the right to travel wherever and whenever you want to, the right to sponsor family members who want to come to the United States, the right to retire outside of the U.S. are just a few of the benefits you will enjoy as a U.S. citizen. Under the U.S. immigration law, citizens of foreign countries can become U.S. citizens through the process that is known as naturalization. In the vast number of situations, an individual becomes eligible for naturalization five years after acquiring Lawful Permanent Resident status. This time period is reduced to three years if Lawful Permanent Resident status was acquired through an immediate relative that is a U.S citizen. The general requirements for naturalization include:

• Physical presence in the United States; although continual presence is not required
• Ability to read, write, and speak English (unless exempted for medical reasons)
• Understanding of U.S. history and the American form of government
• Possess good moral character

Applicants for naturalization must demonstrate good moral character and a belief in the U.S. Constitution and government. In some situations, these cited requirements may be modified or waived, mainly for members of the military, disabled and elderly applicants.

Special Considerations:
If you want to acquire U.S. citizenship certain past, criminal convictions can pose a serious obstacle to achieving this goal. In some circumstances, deportation can result from the mere filing for naturalization because of past criminal offenses. At Teplen & Associates, PLLC we can evaluate and identify problems such as criminal convictions, domestic violence allegations, and other past issues with the law. We can put the facts of your situation in their best possible light as we help you to prepare for the application process.