Osage County Immigration Lawyers

Applying for U.S. Citizenship

There are various ways that immigrants can obtain lawful residence in the U.S. Put simply, there are two paths to becoming a U.S. citizen: by birth or through naturalization. 

Naturalization is the legal process by which an immigrant can acquire U.S. citizenship after meeting the federal requirements in the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). There are important steps to follow to complete the naturalization process:

#1. Determine Eligibility

Immigrants must meet certain criteria to become lawful permanent residents (LPR). Applicants must be green card holders who have lived in the U.S. for a minimum of 5 years (or 3 years for those who are married to a green card holder). 

Assuming the residence requirement is met, non-citizens must meet the following criteria to apply for U.S. citizenship: 

• Be at least 18 years old
• Be of good moral character
• Able to read, write, and speak basic English
• Have a basic understanding of U.S. history and government
• Understand the principles of the U.S. Constitution 
• Take an oath of allegiance to the U.S. 
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#2. Apply for Naturalization 

Next, applicants will submit their application, supporting documents, and a $725 filing fee to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). 

#3. Complete Biometrics Screening 

Assuming their application is accepted, an immigrant will need to move forward in the process by attending a fingerprinting and photographing appointment. The non-citizen must clear multiple background checks before they become eligible to interview with USCIS.   

#4. Interview with USCIS

The next step in the process is to complete an interview with a USCIS officer. Generally, the immigrant can expect to answer questions regarding their application, background, character, and knowledge of U.S. history and government.  

#5. Pass an English Test 

During your interview, the USCIS officer will test your ability to read, write, and speak basic English. They will also assess your understanding of the U.S. government. 

Contact a Skilled Pawhuska Immigration Lawyer Today

The process to obtain U.S. citizenship can last years. Many immigrants will face the disappointment of rejection after investing significant time and effort into petitioning for lawful residence. It’s imperative to seek support from a trusted immigration attorney who can advocate on your behalf, ensure that you meet federal requirements, and collaborate with you throughout this extensive process. 

At Shoemake Law Firm, PLLC, we believe that our clients deserve the opportunity to build a new future in America. That’s why our compassionate team is here to guide you with integrity and sound legal counsel. Whether you’re facing a deportation order or seeking refuge from persecution, you can count on our firm to keep your best interests at heart from start to finish. 

If you’re an immigrant seeking U.S. citizenship, it’s crucial to have experienced legal representation on your side. Call Shoemake Law Firm, PLLC at (918) 380-3444 to schedule a free consultation.