San Francisco Citizenship Attorneys

Step-by-Step Process for Naturalization in San Francisco, CA

For many immigrants, becoming a U.S. citizen is the ultimate goal in their immigration journey. Citizenship offers numerous benefits, including the right to vote, access to a wider range of job opportunities, the ability to travel domestically and internationally with a U.S. passport, and protection from deportation. However, the path to citizenship can be complex, and the naturalization process requires thorough preparation and an understanding of the legal requirements that a person will need to meet. The experienced attorneys at Hafey & Karim can assist immigrants in applying for U.S. citizenship, ensuring they meet the requirements for eligibility and understand how to complete the steps involved in the naturalization process.

Requirements for U.S. Citizenship

To become a U.S. citizen through naturalization, applicants must meet specific requirements established by the laws of the United States. These requirements include:

• Permanent residency: In most cases, an immigrant will need to maintain lawful permanent resident status for a minimum of five years. Immigrants who are married to U.S. citizens may apply for naturalization three years after receiving a Green Card.
• Continuous residence and physical presence: A person must reside in the U.S. for a certain amount of time before they can apply for naturalization. Most applicants must maintain a permanent residence within the United States for five years or more, and spouses of U.S. citizens must maintain continuous residence for three years. A person will need to show that they were physically present in the United States during the applicable period of permanent residence, and they must have maintained this presence for at least half of the minimum period of permanent residence. That is, most applicants must maintain physical presence for 30 months, but spouses of citizens must have been physically present in the U.S. for 18 months.
• Good moral character: Immigration officials may identify any concerns that indicate that a person does not have the morals and values expected of U.S. citizens. In general, a clean criminal record and adherence to the law during the five years before applying for naturalization will be an indication of good moral character.
• English language proficiency: Applicants must be able to read, write, and speak basic English. Exceptions may be available for certain applicants based on their age and the amount of them they have resided in the U.S. as permanent residents.
• Civics knowledge: Applicants must know basic facts about the history of the United States and the structure and functions of the U.S. government.

Steps Followed During Naturalization

The process followed when an immigrant applies for naturalization will involve:

1. Preparing and submitting Form N-400: The process begins with the submission of an Application for Naturalization. This form requires detailed personal information, evidence that a person meets all eligibility requirements, and supporting documents such as tax returns, employment records, and proof of continuous residence.
2. Providing biometrics: After beginning the application process, an applicant will receive a notice to attend an appointment at a government facility. At this appointment, they will be required to provide fingerprints, photographs, and other information that will be used to perform a background check.
3. Naturalization interview: Once USCIS has verified that a person meets the requirements for naturalization, an in-person interview will be scheduled. During the interview, applicants will answer questions about their application and background, take tests for English proficiency and knowledge of civics, and provide any additional requested documentation.
4. Oath of allegiance: If a person receives approval following their naturalization interview, the final step will be a ceremony where they will take an Oath of Allegiance. This ceremony marks the official granting of U.S. citizenship, and a person will receive a Certificate of Naturalization.

Contact Our San Francisco and Dallas Citizenship Attorneys

Achieving U.S. citizenship is a life-changing accomplishment. The attorneys at Hafey & Karim are dedicated to helping immigrants navigate naturalization applications and interviews with confidence and ease. Our team offers personalized support, helping to prepare applications, compile and submit the required documentation, and prepare for naturalization interviews and tests. To arrange your initial consultation and get the legal help you need as you pursue U.S. citizenship, contact us online.