If you are from another country and want to become a US citizen, then you need to complete the naturalization process. However, the process is quite complex. Although many individuals want to become citizens, not all of them are successful in their attempts. By hiring a New York naturalization attorney, you can increase your chances of success. Find out everything that you should know about the naturalization process and how an attorney can help you.

What Is Naturalization?

Naturalization refers to the process that an immigrant goes through to become a US citizen. If you are an immigrant to the US, then you do not automatically become a citizen. Most likely, you are in the country on some type of visa. You don’t have a right to vote or other constitutional rights held by citizens. If you want to be able to stay in the country and have the same rights as other US citizens, then you need to go through naturalization. While it is not a required process, it is a process that can greatly benefit you.

Only some immigrants are eligible for naturalization. In fact, the eligibility requirements are quite strict. Here are a few of the requirements:

• You are at least 18 years of age or older when you file the application for naturalization
• You are a permanent resident and have been one for five years or longer
• In the five years before you filed, you had continuous residence in the US for the whole period
• You were actually in the United States for at least 30 months of those five years
• If you are a student, you applied for naturalization where you attend school or where your parents live
• As a non-student, you lived in the state or district in which you applied for three months or longer
• You have good morals
• The ideals and principles of the constitution appeal to you
• You can write, read, and speak English at a basic level
• At the time of naturalization, you have an understanding of the country’s history and government workings
• You took an oath of allegiance to the country

How Does the Process Work?

The first step to becoming a US citizen is to understand how the naturalization process works. When you decide to become a citizen, you might have many questions about the process. Hiring a New York naturalization attorney can help you find answers. Your lawyer can help you determine your eligibility requirements and start the process. Of course, there are some things that you can do on your own to navigate the process.

If you want to go through the naturalization process, then you first need to determine your eligibility. Consider all of the requirements for naturalization. Then, determine whether or not you meet those requirements. If you don’t, then there is still hope. Figure out which requirements you need to meet and work towards meeting those requirements.

The Details

Before you apply for naturalization, you need to get form N-400. This form contains key information about naturalization. Once you obtain the form, you can read it and start filling it out. After you complete the form, you need to sign it. You also need to get any of the documents required by the N-400. It’s critical that you carefully review your application before you submit it. If you are missing any information, then the USCIS will request that you submit it. But this can delay your application, which delays your citizenship.

Once you send in your application, you will get a notice of receipt. With it, you have the information that you need to check the status of your application. You can also find out how long processing your application should take.

There are several appointments that you need to attend throughout the process. For example, there is a biometrics appointment.  At some point during the process, you will need to go to a naturalization interview. At this appointment, USCIS will ask you questions about your application. They will also administer and English and Civics test unless you are exempt.

If you fail to show up for your appointment, then you could lose or delay your chance to become a citizen. It’s important that you make your appointment and that you show up on time.  Additionally, it’s important to pass your exams. If you fail, you will get one more chance to take the test. Failing the test twice means that the USCIS will deny your application.

If the USCIS approves your application, then you will need to take an oath of allegiance. Only then will you become a citizen of the US.

How Can a New York Naturalization Attorney Help?

When you hire a New York naturalization attorney, he improves your chances of a successful application. He can make sure that you don’t miss any important paperwork. Additionally, your immigration lawyer can help you fight the decision if the USCIS denies you. He might be able to get you a hearing to explain why the denial was uncalled for. With his help, you could become a US citizen.