Naturalization FAQs
If you are a legal permanent resident, you may be wondering what your options are for citizenship. Naturalization is one path to citizenship. To find out if it is right for you, here are naturalization FAQs.
Naturalization FAQs | I have a green card. How do I become naturalized?
A Lawful Permanent Resident (“green card holder”) could remain a green card holder, or petition to become an American citizen. To become eligible to apply for citizenship, you must be at least 18 years old, you must have been a Lawful Permanent Resident for five years (or three if you are married to a U.S. citizen), without any significant absences (6 months or more). Additionally, you must satisfy the following:
- Evidence of good moral character.
- Establish knowledge of U.S. history and government.
- Demonstrate the ability to read and write basic English.
- Establish knowledge of and attachment to the U.S. Constitution.
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When a client has an initial consultation, the attorney should gather as much information as possible in order to set forth realistic expectations. Before proceeding with a naturalization application, it is important to know if a client has been subject to any past legal problems, such as an arrest, taxation issues, or a period when the person fell out of status. An attorney can accompany the applicant to the naturalization interview, which is especially helpful if English is not a client’s strongest language. If a client cannot speak English at all, a New Jersey Naturalization Lawyer may be able to file a medical exception. If you have had a green card for 20 years and are at least 50 years old, or 15 years and are at least 55 years old, you will still have to pass the history and civics part of the citizenship test, but can take the test in your native language. A mental or physical disability might also be grounds for an exemption.
Naturalization FAQs | Can I replace a lost Certificate of Naturalization?
You might be in this position if you’re a U.S. citizen trying to sponsor a family member. Rest easy: you can replace a Certificate of Naturalization, though the process may take up to a year. You will need to submit an N-565 form.
Are you looking to obtain naturalization? New Jersey Naturalization lawyer Susan Scheer has the experience to make the process easy. Please call our experienced Morristown immigration attorney to go over the details and figure out your next move!