(Last update: Jun 26, 2024)
Do you already have 3 to 5 years as a Legal Permanent Resident (Green Card holder)?
Now may be a good time to review the requirements for naturalization. If you meet all the requisites, you could go ahead and start with the application, and if you have a couple of them pending, you can begin preparing for it!
These are the primary requirements:
Requirements for naturalization
*Fees applicable from April 1, 2024.*
Vea el video en español AQUÍ
If you are ready to go, here are the main steps of the process:
Steps for naturalization
Vea el video en español AQUÍ
If you want professional help, call us at (469) 844-0020 and schedule a consultation. We will be happy to help you get there!
Not ready to naturalize?
Why do eligible people hesitate to naturalize? Here are some common reasons we heard.
We invite you to take a look at these and ask yourself if they are good reasons, considering the benefits naturalization may give you.
1. I don´t speak enough English.
If you can read and understand this article, you probably do. Taking some lessons may be a great idea to help improve your English skills. Not only to apply for naturalization but also to open other doors. There are free and low-cost English courses available! Click (here) for some options. There are also some exceptions to this requirement (Check with your lawyer if you may qualify for one.)
2. I am okay with being a resident! There is no need to become a citizen.
Although a Legal Permanent Resident may have a comfortable status, residency does not provide the benefits of citizenship. Without citizenship, there is always a risk of losing your status. The best way to guarantee your right to stay in the U.S. is to be a citizen.
3. Naturalizing is too expensive for me.
Remember your LPR status is also subject to renewal fees and other charges. Once you become a citizen, you will get rid of those. In the long run, you will be saving time and money! Think of it as an investment, not only an economic one but also an investment in security and peace of mind.
4. I had a “problem” (there is a criminal record).
You don’t need a perfect record to naturalize. Consult with an immigration lawyer to see if your criminal record may impact your case.
5. It takes too long.
Yes, immigration processes take time, but the sooner you start, the sooner you become a citizen! Starting now will be beneficial in the long run!
6. I don´t know how to start.
Easy fix! An immigration attorney will be able to address your concerns and guide you through the process. Feel free to call us at (469) 844-0020 to schedule a consultation.
Do you want to know how you may be missing out? Now we will give you…
9 reasons to naturalize
Here are 9 good reasons to apply for naturalization!
1. Never pay USCIS fees again!
- Forget about the fees, the timelines, and the filing processes for immigration purposes, once and for all.
2. Qualify for Federal scholarships and grants
- You can gain access to government benefits or programs available only to U.S. citizens.
3. Be protected from deportation
- A U.S. citizen may not be deported. Citizenship is the only guaranteed protection against deportation.
4. Take longer trips abroad
- Stay abroad for as long as you want or need to, without risking your status.
5. Apply for government jobs
- If you want to work for a better country from the “inside,” you may apply for government jobs or run for office as a citizen.
6. Petition more family
- Citizens may also petition their parents, married children and their families, and their sisters or brothers so they can come to the United States if the request is approved and there is an available visa.
7. Vote in elections
- Have a voice in electing the people who run the country and decide on matters that affect your life and your opportunities. This one is a right but also a responsibility.
8. Get a U.S. passport
- Make traveling easier! Many countries will not require a visa for short travels and you can seek assistance at any U.S. embassy if you need to.
9. Become a U.S. citizen
Make the United States your country, with all rights and responsibilities.
Your new country becomes your new home when you naturalize. For many, it is the end of a long immigration journey.
Whenever you feel ready to apply for naturalization, or if you want to talk your case through with an immigration expert, we are here to help you.
Call us at (469) 844-0020 and schedule a consultation! Our office is located in Dallas, Texas, but we also offer telephone and virtual consults. We would be honored to serve you!