Naturalization

Naturalization is the process by which persons of foreign citizenship or nationalities become citizens of the United States. In most cases, the individual must have held lawful permanent residence for at least four years and nine months before he or she can apply for naturalization. To qualify, an applicant must demonstrate that he or she is a person of good moral character; various rules regarding residence and physical presence in the United States must also be met. All naturalization applicants are interviewed. In most cases, the applicant must demonstrate basic understanding of the English language and be able to pass a civics tests which is administered at the time of the interview. If the applicant passes the interview, he or she is scheduled for an oath ceremony, at which time, he/she receives the naturalization certificate. U.S. citizenship allows an individual to vote in the United States, petition for certain relatives, and apply for certain jobs which are reserved for U.S. citizens. Please contact our office for more information.