Albuquerque Naturalization Lawyer

Understanding the U.S. Naturalization Process

The process of becoming a naturalized United States citizen is a complex one. Immigration laws frequently evolve, and the requirements for naturalization often change. However, for those wishing to become U.S. citizens, the naturalization process is crucial.

At Maney | Gordon | Zeller, P.A., we have extensive experience handling all types of naturalization cases, including both straightforward and highly complex situations. While you are not required by law to hire an attorney to complete the naturalization process, there are many reasons to do so. Our Albuquerque naturalization lawyers can not only ensure that you complete all necessary steps and meet critical deadlines, but they can also provide the personalized guidance and support you need every step of the way. By working with an attorney at our firm, you can put yourself in the best position to successfully complete the process and become a naturalized U.S. citizen.

Continue reading to learn more about the U.S. naturalization/citizenship process or contact us directly at (800) 708-4399 to set up a consultation with an attorney at our firm. We proudly serve clients throughout New Mexico and nationwide.

Who Is Eligible for Naturalization?

To be eligible for U.S. citizenship through the naturalization process, there are certain requirements you must meet.

These requirements include:

• You are at least 18 years old
• You have been a permanent lawful resident for a certain period of time (typically five years, but fewer in some cases) and have been physically in the U.S. for at least half that time
• You have maintained continuous residence in the U.S. without leaving the country for more than certain lengths of time (usually six months)
• You have proof of your “good moral character”

There are many special circumstances that can affect your eligibility and the related requirements, such as being engaged or married to a U.S. citizen, having served in the U.S. military, and more.

What Steps Are Involved in Becoming a Naturalized U.S. Citizen?

If you are eligible for naturalization, you will need to complete several steps in the process. Outside of special situations, the law requires that you demonstrate “an understanding of the English language,” which includes demonstrating that you can read, write, and speak basic English. You will also be required to demonstrate a basic “knowledge and understanding of the fundamentals of the history, and of the principles and forms of government, of the United States.”

To prove these things, you will be required to complete and pass the following:

• A basic English test
• A basic U.S. civics exam

Prior to taking these tests, but after determining that you are eligible for naturalization, you must prepare and file your official Application for Naturalization (Form N-400) at the appropriate Immigration Service Center. At this time, you will also be required to pay various filing fees.

After you have filed your application, you will receive a notice informing you of the date of an appointment where you must appear to be fingerprinted. You will also be informed of the date of additional hearings and interviews with immigration officers, as well as the date(s) of your English and/or civics exam(s). If you fail to appear at any of these hearings, interviews, appointments, or examinations, you may have your application denied.

Once you have completed all the steps involved in the U.S. naturalization process, you will be scheduled for a swearing-in ceremony. At the swearing-in ceremony, you must provide answers to a list of questions provided to you. These questions are used to prove that you have maintained continuous lawful presence in the U.S. and upheld your good moral character during the naturalization process. Once you have turned in this form, you must also turn in your Legal Permanent Residency Document (“green card”) and will be issued a naturalization certificate.

How a Naturalization Lawyer Can Help

As previously mentioned, you are not legally required to have a lawyer to complete the naturalization process and become a U.S. citizen; you are allowed to complete the process yourself. However, an experienced naturalization lawyer, like those at Maney | Gordon | Zeller, P.A., can be invaluable to you during the naturalization process.

Your attorney can assist you in gathering and preparing all necessary paperwork, navigating changes in eligibility and application requirements, meeting all applicable deadlines, and preparing for your exams, interviews, and hearings. All of these things are incredibly important, as any mistakes during the process could jeopardize your ability to complete the naturalization process and become a U.S. citizen.

At Maney | Gordon | Zeller, P.A., we understand the U.S. immigration process and the frequently evolving laws that govern the system. Our Albuquerque naturalization lawyers are here to answer your questions and provide the guidance you need throughout the process. We are prepared to help ease the burden of applying for naturalization, obtaining documentation, and preparing for the various steps involved. Our goal is to reduce your stress and streamline the process as much as possible.

Speak to a Member of Our Legal Team Today

Applying to become a naturalized U.S. citizen is exciting—but the process can be overwhelming. At Maney | Gordon | Zeller, P.A., we want to help you achieve your goals, all while easing the stress you are under. We invite you to get in touch with our team today to learn more about how our immigration attorneys can help you.

From our Albuquerque office, we provide dedicated legal representation to clients throughout New Mexico and across the United States, and we serve clients in English, German, Russian, Spanish, Urdu, Korean, Dutch, Pashto, Hindi, Amharic, Harari, Somali, and Thai.

Call us today at (800) 708-4399 or reach us online using our simple submission form.