Phoenix Citizenship Lawyers

What Are the Requirements for Applying for US Citizenship?

Call Us Today 602-428-9999

There are four ways to gain United States citizenship. A person can seek citizenship through naturalization, marriage, parents, or through military service. Requirements for U.S. citizenship depend upon the basis under which an applicant applies and other factors.

Foreign-born immigrants account for 13 percent of Arizona’s population. Nearly half of those individuals are naturalized citizens. With that in mind, it’s more than possible to reach your citizenship goals.

If you’re seeking U.S. citizenship, we can help. Our experienced attorneys at Best Immigration Lawyer in Phoenix are knowledgeable, compassionate, and skilled. We’re here for you at every stage of the citizenship process.

Citizenship Requirements for Green Card Holders in Phoenix

Naturalization is the process of becoming a U.S. citizen for individuals born outside of the country. Those who meet naturalization requirements may be eligible for citizenship. To be eligible for United States citizenship, the following must be true:

• You’re 18 years old at the time of filing the application for citizenship
• You’ve been a lawful permanent resident (LPN) of the US for at least three or five years
• You’ve lived continuously in the U.S. for the required time
• You’re a person of good moral character
• You have the ability to read, write, and speak basic English
• You can demonstrate loyalty to and knowledge of the principles of the U.S. Constitution
• You have knowledge and understanding of U.S. history
• You’re willing to take the Oath of Allegiance

It’s important to note that there are exceptions to citizenship requirements. If your case is more complex, or you have questions about the process, it’s in your best interest to consult with a skilled and knowledgeable Phoenix citizenship lawyer.

Citizenship Through Marriage

Foreign-born individuals who are married to U.S. citizens can apply for permanent residency and, eventually, citizenship. Listed below are the requirements to gain citizenship through marriage.

1. File form I-130 Petition for Alien Relative (IR1 or CR1 visa) and Form I-485 Application to Register Permanent Residency or Adjust Status
2. Attend the marriage interview
3. Meet all residency requirements
4. Meet the exact personal requirements as all other naturalized citizens

If you’re seeking citizenship through marriage, it’s essential to understand the eligibility requirements and procedures. Mistakes made during the application process can result in delays or denials.

Citizenship Through Military Service

Foreign-born people who have served honorably in the U.S. military may be eligible to apply for citizenship. Most of the citizenship requirements for this category are similar to the citizenship requirements for five-year green card holders. However, there are a few differences. For example:

• You must honorably complete your military service
• If you serve during a time of “hostility,” you can immediately apply for naturalization
• If you served during peacetime, you must have served for at least one year, hold a green card, and file your application while in the service or within six months of leaving.

Citizenship Through Parents

There are many ways to gain citizenship through your parents. If you fall under one of the following categories, you may be eligible to seek U.S. citizenship.

• Both of your parents are U.S. citizens, but you were born outside of the country
• One of your parents is a U.S. citizen
• Your parents are unmarried. One is a U.S. citizen. The other is not
• You were born in the U.S. after Feb 27, 2001
• Citizenship through adoption

Each of the categories listed above has different eligibility requirements and procedures. Gaining citizenship through your parents can sometimes be a complicated process. Contact Best Immigration Lawyer in Phoenix to discuss your case and learn more about your options.