The United States of America has always opened its doors to foreign nationals wishing to become U.S. citizens. However, the USCIS has always emphasized a legal and procedural process to be pursued for applicants to become U.S. citizens. Similarly, during the Financial Year 2021, the USCIS welcomed 855,000 new U.S. citizens.
This trend of U.S. citizenship by naturalization continues to grow even more in the coming years. The USCIS has also pledged to continue serving the public with similar compassion and reflecting America’s promise of becoming a welcoming nation for immigrants.
The immigrant body has always remained a core strength behind building the foundations of the country’s economy and stability.
It is mandatory to know the process, eligibility requirements, and how to apply for U.S. citizenship in 2022.
Benefits of U.S. Citizenship
There are countless benefits for the immigrants turning into U.S. Citizens by naturalization. Green Card holders who have satisfied the naturalization requirements can apply for U.S. citizenship.
By becoming a U.S. citizen, they can avail all the benefits gained by native U.S. citizens as well. Among the notable advantages include the following
- Protection from deportation
- Eligibility to apply for family reunification
- U.S. Citizenship For Children
- Eligibility to work in Government Jobs
- A Powerful Passport
These are a few notable benefits the naturalized citizens can take advantage of. In addition, numerous other advantages come with U.S. citizenship, including medical care, taxation eligibility and other federal benefits.
U.S. Citizenship Requirements
To become a U.S. citizen, the applicants must meet the minimum eligibility requirements. The requirements include the following conditions to be assured:
- An applicant’s minimum age must be at least 18 years.
- They have been residing in the United States continuously for previous years.
- They have ensured their physical presence in the country for prior years.
- Have guaranteed their residence in the state or USCIS district where they intend to apply.
- Must possess a “good moral character.”
- Never indulged in any terrorism or illicit activities.
- Be proficient in the national language; English communication, including written and verbal skills.
- Sound knowledge of U.S history and government.
- Must register for volunteer military service or civic service in the case when required.
- Adhere to the loyalty to the United States.
- Take a loyalty oath to the United States.
If the applicants comply with all the above conditions, they can apply for a U.S. citizenship process called naturalization.
How to apply for U.S. Citizenship? Step by Step
The further overview of the application process for naturalization in this section can be read, and you can find out the guide to applying for U.S. citizenship.
It is essential to ensure that you meet all eligibility standards before applying for naturalization and determine whether you’re eligible for any exceptions or modifications.
1. Determining Your Current Status
Check your eligibility for citizenship if you are not a citizen of the United States by birth or if you did not automatically receive citizenship from your parent(s) after birth. You must know your current citizenship status, as the children born in the U.S. have become U.S. citizens already.
2. Checking Eligibility of Becoming A U.S. Citizen
You may check your eligibility for becoming a U.S. citizen; the requirements have been aforementioned.
3. Preparing Form N-400
Form N-400 is a federal document used by Green Card holders who are prepared to apply for citizenship in the United States after fulfilling specific qualifying requirements. It is formally known as the “Application for Naturalization.”
The first stage in the “naturalization” process entails becoming an American citizen—submitting this form to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), a division of the DHS.
However, filing form N-400 is a core step in this process. Even a minor mistake or any irregularity in the filing can lead to a rejection or denial. In order to make this process sail smoothly, this petition must be filed by an experienced immigration attorney.
Being associated with the field for the past several years, we have filed hundreds of files on behalf of immigrants that have resulted in positive responses. Similarly, you may contact us for legal guidelines and application filing procedures.
4. Submission of Form N-400
After carefully filing the petition, you must submit this form to USCIS and pay its respective fee.
5. Biometrics Appointment
When you file the form and pay the dues, you receive a receipt from the USCIS about the submission. Afterward, you must take biometrics; USCIS will send you an appointment notice with information about the date, time, and location.
6. Interview
In order to complete the naturalization process, USCIS will schedule an interview with you after all the preliminary procedures on your case have been finished. At the time and day specified on your appointment notice, you must appear at the USCIS office. Bring the appointment confirmation with you.
7. Submission of Supporting Documents
The applicants must submit supporting documents along with the form submission. The supporting documents can include your Green Card permits, related documentation regarding your stay in the U.S., and, most importantly, a photocopy of a Green Card.
If your Green Card has expired, it is advised to have it renewed before applying for citizenship because you must submit a photocopy of it. Although it is not necessary by law, it is recommended to renew your Green Card before applying for U.S. citizenship because a holder of a Green Card must always have a current Green Card on them as proof of their legal status.
8. Receiving a Decision
Once the submissions are made, and interviews are done. The USCIS announces the decision. The decisions can be:
- Granted
- Continued
- Denied
The notice can be viewed in the online account as well.
9. Taking the Oath of Allegiance to the United States
Once the applicants are granted U.S. citizenship, they must take an oath of allegiance to the United States. You do not become a U.S. citizen until you take an oath at a naturalization ceremony.
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