How to Apply for US Citizenship with a Green Card

Acquisition of citizenship in the United States is one of the biggest achievements of many legal permanent residents. Citizenship of the United States gives an individual certain privileges like the right to vote, eligibility for federal employment, issuance of U.S. passports, and protection from deportation in most cases, among others.

If you would like to know how to become a citizen through a Green Card, this article will take you step by step through the entire process.

What is Naturalization?

Naturalization is a legal procedure whereby an immigrant with a Green Card is granted citizenship status. The applicant must fulfill certain requirements for citizenship that have been set out by the USCIS.

Benefits of Obtaining US citizenship with a Green Card

There are certain advantages that only a US citizen can exercise. Most of these are not accessible to a foreign citizen, even if they hold the status of permanent resident. These include:

• Federal election voting rights
• Eligibility for a U.S. passport
• Ineligibility for removal in most cases
• The ability to bring in more relatives
• Access to certain federal employment
• Eligibility for certain federal benefits
• Full participation in civic life

Applying for US Citizenship

Step 1: Determine Eligibility

Before submitting your application, ensure that you have fulfilled the necessary conditions for naturalization. Typically, you will be required to fulfill the following conditions:

·         You are at least 18 years old.

·         You have a legal permanent resident status. 

·         You have maintained your legal status in the US, have held your green card, for five years (or three years if you are married to a U.S. citizen and have been living together for at least three years, among other qualifications).

·         You have been physically present in the U.S. for the required period.

·         You reside in the state where you are filing your application for at least three months.

·         You have demonstrated good resident character throughout your residency period.

·         Ability to read, write, and speak basic English (you are exempt from this requirement if you do not qualify).

·         Have passed the civics test (exempt if you don’t qualify).

·         Support the U.S. Constitution and pledge allegiance to it.

Step 2: Compile Supporting Documents

The preparation of these documents may avoid any delays in your case. Some of these documents are:

• A copy of your Green Card
• Official government photo ID
• Your passport and other traveling documents
• Marriage certificate (in case you apply on the basis of marriage with a U.S. citizen)
• Divorce and death certificates of past marriage(s), if applicable
• Proof of your income tax returns or IRS transcript
• Legal records/police records (if applicable)
• Others, as per your individual case

Step 3: Filing Form N-400

You will need to file Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, in order to become a citizen. The applicant is required to provide the following information on the form:

·         Personal information

·         Current Address

·         Employment information

·         Family information

·         International travel

·         Criminal information

·         Immigration information

Step 4: Biometrics Appointment

After USCIS gets your form, you will be notified to make an appointment for providing your biometric information.

The following are included during your appointment with USCIS:

·         Fingerprinting

·         Picture

·         Signature

Step 5: Interview

After the biometrics, an interview will be scheduled by the USCIS. The USCIS official will ask you questions about your background and personal information. In case there have been any changes since you filed your application, be ready to justify the changes. The interview will also include English and Civics tests.

The English exam assesses your skills in reading English, writing English, and basic knowledge of communication English. The Civics exam tests your knowledge of American history and government.

Some applicants may be eligible for exceptions due to their age or medical disability. USCIS now conducts several versions of the civics exam according to the date of application.

Step 6: Oath of Allegiance

If accepted, you will be scheduled for your Oath of Allegiance Ceremony. During the ceremony, you will:

·         Turn in your Permanent Resident Card

·         Take the Oath of Allegiance

·         Get your Certificate of Naturalization

·         After completing your oath, you are now officially a United States citizen.

Practical Tips

Make sure to follow the instructions given below to make a successful submission and increase your chances of approval:

·         Be sure you meet the eligibility requirements prior to applying.

·         Report all travel outside the U.S. accurately.

·         Respond to all questions honestly and completely.

·         Provide all necessary documentation.

·         Keep copies of all information submitted.

·         Inform USCIS immediately of any change of address.

·         Study hard for the interview and citizenship test.

How Documitra Can Help

With the latest political developments and policy changes, the scrutiny around citizenship and even residency has increased in the United States. Therefore, it has become more important than ever to apply US citizenship with correct documents, clear background and pass the interview in one attempt, for there are chances you might not get another chance.

This is why you should trust professionals like the team at Documitra. We have extensive experience in handling documentation, consular services and immigration services. We take care of everything for you, increasing your chances of approval.

FAQs

Q. Can I Apply Before Five Years?

Yes. The majority of applicants can submit Form N-400 up to 90 days prior to meeting the three or five years of continuous residence requirement, provided they meet all other qualifications.

Q. How long do I need to hold my Green Card before applying for Naturalization?

Most applicants have to hold their green cards for the required residency duration, i.e., 5 years for normal applicants, 3 years if married to a US citizen.

Q. Do I have to take the Oath of Allegiance?

Yes, taking the Oath of Allegiance is the concluding step in US citizenship process. You will be officially granted US citizenship at the ceremony.