- What is the Citizenship/Naturalization Process?
- What is the difference between Citizenship Certificate and Naturalization Certificate?
- When can someone apply for Naturalization?
- What are some other requirements for Citizenship?
- What is considered Good Moral Character?
- Who qualifies for exceptions?
- What am I to expect once the N-400 Application is submitted?
What is the Citizenship/Naturalization Process?
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What is the difference between Citizenship Certificate and Naturalization Certificate?
The Naturalization Certificate is granted to a non-citizen, that was admitted into the United States and became a Lawful Permanent Resident. This is proof of citizenship that is granted after a process to determinate if a Lawful Permanent Resident qualifies to be U.S. Citizen.
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When can someone apply for Naturalization?
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What are some other requirements for Citizenship?
The family members of U.S. Military Members can apply under an expedited and different process than the regular applicants.
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What is considered Good Moral Character?
An applicant that has criminal record or any type of moral/civil obligation that has not been met (Child Support/Internal Revenue Service debt) can still apply for citizenship, but this would possibly make the case more difficult and the odds of approval could be lower. For this type of cases it is highly recommended to speak with an Immigration Attorney, not only to evaluate the risks involved as each case is unique, but also, the potential risk of losing your green card and being put into removal proceedings.
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Who qualifies for exceptions?
Also, a Lawful Permanent Resident does not need to meet the English language (this also means that the applicant can do the civic test in their native language, they will need to be accompanied by a Translator) requirement if:
- Is over 50 years old and have lived in the United States as a Lawful Permanent Resident for at least 20 years.
- Is over 55 years old and have lived in the United States as a Lawful Permanent Resident for at least 15 years.
- Is over 65 years old and have lived in the United States as a Lawful Permanent Resident for at least 20 years.
THIS EXCEPTION ALSO GRANTS THE APPLICANT WITH A REDUCED VERSION OF THE CIVIC TEST, THAT MAKES IT EASIER (20 QUESTIONS INSTEAD OF 100)
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What am I to expect once the N-400 Application is submitted?
- Receive Form I-797C, Notice of Action, Receipt Notice; this shows that the case has been received by the USCIS Office that will process your case;
- Receive Form I-797C, Notice of Action, Biometrics Appointment; this is a scheduled appointment for the applicant to get fingerprinted and photograph. This will allow USCIS to conduct a Background check on you;
- Receive Form I-797C, Notice of Action, Interview Notice; this is scheduled appointment for the applicant to do his English and Civics Test. On this appointment the applicant may be notified in their application is approved.
- Receive Form I-797C, Notice of Action, Oath Ceremony; this will be the last step for the path of Citizenship. The applicant will go to a Solemn Ceremony and will obtain his final Naturalization Certificate.
You will not become a citizen until the oath-ceremony is approved.
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