Immigration is a hotbed topic in this current political climate. Becoming a citizen under these conditions may seem impossible, but with the proper guidance, anyone who follows the legal path to citizenship has a chance. While it is not always an easy process, it may prove the best strategy for entering and remaining in the states legally. Anyone looking for long-term residency and citizenship would be remiss not to give it a try. Knowing how the road to citizenship works may help you get there sooner.
Naturalization
The naturalization process is one of the most popular ways of becoming a permanent and legal resident of the country. It has a set of 10 benchmarks or steps that applicants must reach to become a permanent, naturalized citizen. Some of these include things such as:
- Passing a naturalization test
- Meeting eligibility requirements
- Submitting to a medical exam
- Filing forms such as the N-400
- Going through an interview
Eligibility may vary, but essential requirements include being at least 18 years old and not having a violent criminal history in your country of origin. An immigration lawyer howard county md may review these steps with you.
Green Card Status
You may already be residing in the U.S. with the help of a Green Card. This card allows an immigrant to live and work for a temporary period. The hope of many Green Card holders is becoming permanent residents through the naturalization process. Some ways a person may qualify and receive this designation status may be through marriage to a U.S. Citizen, through employment or by a petition made on the immigrant’s behalf by a citizen. Green Cards are temporary and must be renewed. Having this residency designation helps the naturalization application and is often a requirement.
Whatever way a person becomes a legal citizen, some steps must be followed to do it properly. Getting help from someone with experience in the process may help it go smoother.