San Diego Citizenship & Naturalization Attorney

Guiding Your Journey to U.S. Citizenship

We have helped many people and their families become American citizens and settle into a new life in the United States. We look forward to helping you through what is often a confusing and stressful process. It is rewarding for us to know that our professional experience has helped our clients pursue the American dream that isn’t always available to everyone.

Understanding the Benefits of U.S. Citizenship

Obtaining U.S. citizenship offers a wide range of benefits that can positively impact your life and the lives of your loved ones. As a U.S. citizen, you will have the right to vote, travel with a U.S. passport, sponsor family members for immigration, and have access to government benefits and protections. Additionally, you will have the security of knowing that you cannot be deported and can fully participate in the opportunities and freedoms that the United States has to offer.

Other benefits of U.S. citizenship include:

• Eligibility for federal jobs and financial aid for education
• Protection from deportation and the ability to travel freely
• Ability to petition for family members to join you in the U.S.
• Access to all legal rights and protections under U.S. law

Our San Diego citizenship and naturalization attorney can guide you through the naturalization process and help you understand the full scope of benefits that come with becoming a U.S. citizen.

What is the First Step in the Naturalization Process?

The first step at becoming a U.S. citizen is to apply for and become a lawful permanent resident. You must be a lawful permanent resident for at least five years if you’re not married to a U.S. citizen spouse. If you are married to a U.S. citizen spouse, you can apply for naturalization and citizenship in three years. Once you’ve met this timeline, you will be allowed to proceed with the Naturalization process by filing the N-400 and supporting documents. A San Diego naturalization lawyer can help you with this process.

Key Eligibility Criteria for U.S. Naturalization:

• Be 18 years of age or older
• Be green card holder for at least 5 years when filing your N-400 application
• Have continuous residence in the United States for at least 5 years at the time of filing the application
• Be physically present in the United States for at least 30 months out of the 5 years prior to filing the application
• Be a person of good moral character and loyal to the United States
• Be able to read, write, and speak English
• Have basic knowledge and an understanding of U.S. history and government
• Pass a history/government exam

If the applicant is more than 55 years old and has lived in the United States for 15 years or has been a resident for 20 years and is over 50 years old, he or she can take the naturalization exam in their native language. There are some people that might be able to become a U. S. citizen if one of their parents is or was a U.S. citizen under the Child Citizenship Act or as a Derivative Citizen, even if the person was born in another country.

Ready to Apply for Citizenship? Contact Our San Diego Team by calling (619) 332-1703 for Expert Naturalization Guidance!