Immigration Lawyer of Chicago
Although the application process for naturalization in Chicago may seem intimidating, there are many benefits to becoming a U.S. citizen. Therefore, it is generally advisable for those who are eligible for naturalization to undergo this process and reap the rewards for themselves and their families.
Fortunately, help is available for this complex yet rewarding journey. The legal team at Hacking Immigration Law, LLC has played a vital role in helping immigrants complete their applications for visas, citizenship and other immigration matters. Our attorneys could help you with your application for citizenship and prepare you for the process ahead.
The Steps Toward Naturalization
The process of obtaining U.S. citizenship through naturalization in Chicago occurs through various steps that must be completed in a specific order. These steps are:
- Determination eligibility for naturalization
- Completing the application form and submitting all necessary documentation
- Completing the interview
- Reviewing the results
- Taking and fulfilling the oath
The length of time it takes to complete these steps varies depending on the circumstances and location of the applicant.
Determining Eligibility for Citizenship
The factors that determine eligibility for naturalization can vary, but there are some general requirements that apply in most cases. An applicant must generally have been a lawful permanent resident (LPR) for at least five years and have lived in their current district or state for at least three months.
To succeed in the naturalization process, an applicant in Chicago must also have a good understanding of U.S. civics, including knowledge of U.S. history and how the government operates. Additionally, the applicant must be able to read, write and speak basic English. Depending on circumstances, certain requirements may be waived. For instance, those seeking naturalization based on military service may be exempt from some residency requirements.
Because the eligibility requirements vary based on the circumstances involved, it can be helpful to seek guidance an immigration attorney to determine whether an applicant is eligible and which procedures apply to the particular circumstances.
Completing the Naturalization Application and Interview Process
Eligible applicants for citizenship must fill out a Form N-400, "Application for Naturalization." Applicants may also need to collect proper documentation and information about the applicant's biometrics to verify identification. The form and any requested supporting information is submitted to USCIS for review. After a naturalization application has been reviewed, USCIS schedules an interview with the applicant.
The applicant must report to the location specified at the proper time with necessary documentation and the interview notice. During the interview, the applicant must demonstrate an understanding of U.S. history and government, as well as the English language. It is important to answer questions honestly because citizenship obtained by fraudulent means can provide grounds for deportation.
Receiving the Results
In Chicago, the final step in the process for naturalization is receiving a written notice of the results. If the applicant is deemed eligible, the application will be approved and if not, the application will be denied. In some cases, however, the application is not approved or denied but continued. This enables an applicant to provide any missing information, clarify any confusion, or retake the language or civics exam if the applicant did not pass on the first attempt.
When a citizenship application is approved, the applicant may be able to participate in a ceremony that day or they may receive notice to attend at a future date. Applicants do not become U.S. citizens until the naturalization ceremony where they take the Oath of Allegiance to the United States and turn in their "green cards." After taking the oath, they receive a Certificate of Naturalization.
A Chicago Attorney Could Help with the Process for Naturalization
To learn more about the application process for naturalization in Chicago or the rights and responsibilities of U.S. citizenship, consult an experienced attorney from our office. We could prepare you for this process and collect any necessary documentation. Additionally, if any obstacles arise during this process our team could handle them and work hard to help you achieve your goal of citizenship.
