New York Licensed Immigration Attorney for All Your Naturalization and Citizenship Needs
N-400, Application for Naturalization
The N-400 is for Lawful Permanent Residents ready to become Citizens. Citizenship is a common thread that unites all Americans, we are not united by race, or birth location, but by our U.S. Citizenship. Julianne believes becoming a U.S. Citizen is one of the most important steps and decisions an immigrant can make.
Depending on your situation, there are different requirements that may apply to you. However, generally, an applicant for naturalization must:
- Be 18 years old or older at the time of filing Form N-400, Application for Naturalization.
- Be a lawful permanent resident (have a “green card”).
- Demonstrate continuous permanent residence in the United States for at least 5 years. (In some cases, this may be 3 years if you are married to a U.S. citizen.)
- Show that you have been physically present in the United States for 30 months. (In some cases, this may be 18 months if you are married to a U.S. citizen.)
- Show that you have lived for at least 3 months in the state or USCIS district where you claim residence.
Benefits of U.S. Citizenship:
Vote. Only U.S. citizens can vote in federal elections. Most states also restrict the right to vote to U.S. citizens. Voting is key to making sure the U.S. grows in ways we all want to see, the best way to help effectuate change is to Vote!
Travel with a U.S. passport. A U.S. passport enables you to travel to many countries with Visa Waiver Programs, meaning you do not need to get a tourist visa to visit, and if you need one the process is very streamlined. Being a U.S. Citizen also allows you to get assistance from the U.S. government when overseas, if necessary.
Bring family members to the U.S. U.S. citizens generally get priority when petitioning to bring family members permanently to the U.S..
Obtain citizenship for children under 18 years of age. In most cases, a child born to a U.S. Citizen is automatically a U.S. citizen as well. However, when you naturalize if you have children under the age of 18, they obtain Citizenship which can be finalized through the N-600 listed below.
Apply for federal jobs. Certain jobs with government agencies require U.S. citizenship.
Become an elected official. Only U.S. Citizens can run for federal office (U.S. Senate or House of Representatives) and for most state and local offices.
Keep your residency. A U.S. citizen’s right to remain in the United States cannot be taken away regardless of how long they travel or remain overseas.
Interested in Becoming a Citizen and Not Sure if You Qualify?
I have prepared a short intake for you if you are interested in becoming a U.S. Citizen, but unsure if you qualify:
If you are interested in finding out if you qualify to become a Citizen and would like to a consultation with Julianne, please complete the following:
Check Out Frequently Asked Questions for the N-400!
N-600, Application for Certificate of Citizenship
The N-600 is for individuals who have a parent that was a U.S. citizen, either by birth or naturalization, before he/she turned 18 years old.
