Naturalization Attorney In Missouri & Arizona

Securing a green card (lawful permanent resident status) for a minimum of five years generally sets you up to apply for United States citizenship via the naturalization process. Alternatively, if you're wedded to a U.S. citizen, your eligibility might arise earlier - just three years. Besides the time factor, there are other prerequisites you must fulfill, which involve demonstrating good moral character, basic English language and U.S. history skills, plus an understanding of U.S. government operations.  Additionally, you must be at least 18 years old and maintain continuous residence in the U.S. during the naturalization process.

Obtaining a green card (lawful permanent resident status) is often seen as a stepping stone towards becoming a citizen of the United States. After all, having a green card for at least five years makes you eligible to apply for citizenship through naturalization. However, if you are married to a U.S. citizen, this time period can be reduced to just three years.

But time isn't the only factor that determines your eligibility for naturalization. You must also meet certain requirements that show you are deserving of becoming a citizen. These include demonstrating good moral character, basic English language skills, knowledge of U.S. history and government, and a willingness to support the Constitution.

One important requirement that often goes overlooked is maintaining continuous residence in the U.S. during the naturalization process. This means that you must physically be in the country for a certain amount of time leading up to your citizenship application. Depending on your specific situation, this can range from three months to five years. It's important to note that any trips outside of the U.S. during this period may affect your eligibility for naturalization. Long absences or frequent travel can potentially raise red flags and lead to denials or delays in your application.

On meeting these, you'll gain most of the same rights that natural-born U.S. citizens have. Andres G. Hernandez, an experienced Immigration Law practitioner situated in Missouri and Arizona, is your go-to person for this process. If you believe you meet these qualifications, reach out to him to set your naturalization process in motion.