If you’re an immigrant who is interested in becoming a United States citizen, you’ve probably come across the term “naturalization.” However, you may not fully understand the meaning of this word. After all, plenty of U.S. citizens are not sure what it means. According to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), “Naturalization is the process by which U.S. citizenship is granted to a foreign citizen or national after he or she fulfills the requirements established by Congress in the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA).” Sounds good, so what does it take to qualify? This is what it takes to qualify for naturalization:
- You have to be a permanent resident for a minimum of 5 years, or
- You are married to a U.S. citizen and you have been a permanent resident for a minimum of 3 years, or
- You have been in the U.S. Armed Forces; your service qualifies and you have met the other eligibility requirements. To learn more about citizenship for military members, click here.
Note: Are you a U.S. citizen, but your child was born outside the United States? In that case, your son or daughter may qualify for naturalization if your child is currently living abroad and he or she meets all other eligibility requirements. “Could I be a U.S. citizen if my parents became a U.S. citizen before my 18th birthday? If your biological or adoptive parents became U.S. citizens before you turned 18, then it is possible that you are already a U.S. citizen. To learn more, contact our immigration firm.
U.S. Citizenship Through Naturalization
Are you interested in becoming a naturalized citizen of the United States? If so, the Plano immigration attorneys at The Zendeh Del Law Firm, PLLC are here to help. We can answer all of your questions about Green Cards, working in the U.S., bringing family over, waiting periods, and naturalization. To learn more, don’t hesitate to contact us today.