CITIZENSHIP AND NATURALIZATION

Depends. Dual nationality means that you are a national of two countries at the same time. Depending on the political relations with your country, you may be able to have both nationalities. U.S. law does not mention dual nationality or require a person to choose one nationality or another. U.S. citizens may naturalize in a foreign country without any risk to his or her U.S. citizenship. Dual nationals owe allegiance to both the United States and the foreign country. Citizens are required to obey both countries’ laws, and the countries have the right to enforce its laws.

If you are a Green Card holder, you can apply for U.S. citizenship through a process called Naturalization.  Most immigrants in the United States become citizens through the naturalization process.   You must submit Form N-400 along with the applicable fees to USCIS and supporting evidence.

Green Card holders can apply for Citizenship through the naturalization process if:

1. You had your Green card for at least 5 years, or 3 years if you are married to a United States citizen,
2. Have maintained a physical presence in the U.S.,
3. You are at least 18 years old,
4. Are a person of good moral character,
5. You can read, write, speak, and understand basic English.

You can apply for U.S. citizenship up to 90 (ninety) days before you become eligible.  You can also apply at any time after you become eligible. There are no restrictions on the time to apply. Applying for citizenship is a personal decision, but considering all the benefits of U.S. citizenship, it is best to apply as soon as possible.

To apply for citizenship, you must submit all your documents to prove that you are eligible.  The documents include a copy of your green card, civil records, documents relating to any arrests or conviction (if any), and evidence of your good moral character.  Each naturalization applicant is unique and deserves individual assessment.  You must submit the best evidence when you first apply to improve your chances of getting approved.

Immigration law has evolved rapidly in the last four years and is continuously changing.  If you have a Green Card and want to become a citizen of the United States, chances are that you are weighing the costs versus the benefits of the application.  However, you should consider that U.S. citizenship is an investment in your future.

USCIS currently charges a fee of $725.00 to apply for citizenship.  The fee is non-refundable and may be subject to change.  Our naturalization lawyers ensure that you submit the best application possible to give you peace of mind and save you time.

You are required to keep and safeguard your Naturalization certificate.  However, if your certificate is lost or stolen, you can apply for a new one.  You must submit Form N-565 with the applicable fees and supporting documents.  Our naturalization lawyers can assist you with the replacement of a lost or stolen certificate of Naturalization.