UNDERSTANDING THE N-400 APPLICATION FOR NATURALIZATION
If you have questions about the N-400 application process for naturalization, an immigration lawyer can help give you the answers you need. Foreign nationals who want to apply for naturalization may do so by filling out and submitting Form N-400, but that’s not all. You also must meet specific eligibility requirements to apply.
A lawyer specializing in immigration law can help you determine if you meet the criteria and can also help you file the Form N-400 correctly. Lozano Law Firm is an immigration law firm serving the communities of San Antonio, Eagle Pass, Laredo and San Angelo in business and family-based immigration law, and is here to assist you with your Form N-400 application.
Certified Immigration Lawyer Near Me in San Antonio, TX: Lozano Law Firm
At The Lozano Law Firm, we’re passionate about helping our friends and neighbors in southern Texas achieve their lifelong dreams of U.S. citizenship. Our founder, Alfredo Lozano, is a board-certified specialist in immigration and nationality law who has extensive experience handling naturalization cases.
As a first-generation American himself, Mr. Lozano can help you navigate the waters of immigration and naturalization. Call us at The Lozano Law Firm today at (210) 899-2290 to schedule an initial consultation and evaluate your case.
What Is Naturalization?
Naturalization is the process that foreign nationals can use to become U.S. citizens. However, applicants must have a legal permanent residence in the U.S. for at least three to five years before they file Form N-400, or they won’t be eligible.
Form N-400
If you’re a Green Card holder, you can use Form N-400 to apply for naturalization. Currently, the wait time for N-400 naturalization approval is between 18.5 and 24 months. You’ll also have to pay fees when you file the N-400 as follows:
$725 government filing fee
$640 processing fee
$85 for biometrics (fingerprints, etc.)
If you can’t afford the fees, you can apply for a fee waiver or reduction.
What Are the Eligibility Requirements for Naturalization?
Green Card holders over 18 can apply for naturalization three to five years after obtaining a permanent residency. However, you must meet even more requirements to file for naturalization:
You cannot have left the U.S. for more than six months at a time during the three- to five-year waiting period.
You must take and pass a two-part test: one on the English language and another about U.S. history and government.
You must live in the state where you’re applying for citizenship for at least three months prior to filing.
You must have “good moral character,” which measures up to the standards of most average U.S. citizens.
Males who live in the U.S. between the ages of 18 and 25 must register with the Selective Service System.
You must be 100% willing to perform civil service or serve in the U.S. military, if necessary.
Lastly, you must be ready to defend the U.S. Constitution.
What Are the Steps in the N-400 Naturalization Process?
If you haven’t hired an immigration lawyer yet, you may not know the steps involved with the naturalization process. Here’s a general overview of what will happen:
Determine if you’re eligible for naturalization and meet the requirements.
Prepare and submit your Form N-400 with the help of an immigration attorney.
Attend your biometrics appointment.
Attend your interview with the U.S. Citizen and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Receive an official USCIS decision on your Form N-400.
Upon approval, receive your official invitation to take the Oath of Allegiance.
Take your Oath of Allegiance to the United States of America.
Of course, the last steps are dependent on whether you receive approval. If you receive a continuance or denial, you must follow other legal avenues regarding your case.
Do You Need an Immigration Attorney to File Form N-400?
As you can see, the naturalization process is complex and requires many different steps. Even if you make a small error on your N-400, the USCIS could deny your naturalization. However, with the help of an experienced lawyer for immigration, you’ll have a much better chance of a successful outcome. Your attorney will guide you through the process, helping you navigate the maze of naturalization and becoming a U.S. citizen.
Another reason to have an immigration attorney on your side is in case you don’t receive approval. For example, you could receive a continuance if the USCIS asks for additional information or evidence and you don’t supply the correct documents or fail the test. If that happens, your immigration lawyer will be right by your side to determine the best way to proceed based on your case specifics.
Call Lozano Law Firm Today to Start the Naturalization Process
At Lozano Law Firm, we work hard to help families and corporations through the immigration maze™. We believe that immigrants are really good for our country, and we will make every effort within our area of law to help clients obtain legal status in the United States.
Alfredo Lozano, a board-certified immigration attorney in good standing licensed to practice U.S. immigration law, can help you navigate the confusing N-400 paperwork with expertise, dedication, and an individual approach. Fill out our contact form or call us at (210) 899-2290 to schedule your consultation.
Lozano Law Firm - Abogados de Inmigración
5718 University Heights Blvd #104,
San Antonio, TX 78249
(210) 899-2290
https://www.AbogadoLozano.com/
