Naturalization and Citizenship

Becoming a U.S. Citizen

The greatest benefits of living in the U.S. go to those who are U.S. citizens. Some people can also become U.S. citizens through a parent without the need to get a green card first. Everyone else must first have a green card.

Benefits of Citizenship

• Right to vote
• Cannot be deported
• Right to a U.S. passport
• Able to sponsor parents, siblings, and married adult children as well as spouses and unmarried children
• Your children may derive citizenship through you automatically
• Easier to travel abroad
• Eligible for certain government jobs
• Right to run for elected office
• Exempt from federal estate taxes
• Allowed to be a jury member

Naturalization

After getting a green card, legal permanent residents are eligible to apply for naturalization after a certain amount of time passes. Most have to wait five years, though if you got your green card through marriage, you are eligible after three years. If you are in the U.S. military, you may apply during military training.

Never apply for naturalization without consulting an immigration attorney if you have ever been convicted of a crime, no matter how old the conviction is. Certain types of convictions will lead to the denial of your naturalization application or even removal proceedings.

Derivative Citizenship

Sometimes, a child can claim U.S. citizenship through a parent who is a U.S. citizen. Proof of U.S. citizenship is through an application for a certificate of citizenship. Most people get their certificate of citizenship as children, but you can apply as an adult.

The laws of derivative citizenship are complicated because they have changed over the years. You must be eligible under the law in effect at the time of your birth or adoption. Making sure you have all the evidence when you apply is critical because you can apply only once for a certificate of citizenship. Contact Blackwell Law Group today.