FROM GREEN CARD TO CITIZENSHIP: WHAT APPLICANTS NEED TO KNOW

To become a U.S. citizen is a big deal. It shows stability, opportunity, and a sense of belonging. Nevertheless, the path from green card to Citizenship is filled with planning, patience, and preparation that are essential. 

Though the process might seem overwhelming, by following a well-informed guide, you can navigate it successfully. Thus, knowing what to expect at each stage will help you to proceed with confidence. 

This post is a comprehensive guide to what applicants need to know. It delves into eligibility, timelines, documents, interviews, and common mistakes. More importantly, it guides you through the process of Citizenship. 

Understanding the Difference Between a Green Card and Citizenship 

One’s green card is their ticket to lawful permanent residence. Citizenship, on the other hand, is the complete legal membership of the United States that a person receives. 

While permanent residents can live and work freely here, they do not have the right to vote in federal elections. 

Moreover, green card holders are restricted on travel and in some cases, they can be deported. 

On the other hand, citizens have rights and privileges that are beyond those of mere residents; voting rights, right to apply for federal jobs, and the ability to sponsor a wider range of relatives, etc. 

Therefore, it is not surprising that many green card holders ultimately decide to seek Citizenship. 

Reasons Why Citizenship Is Important 

Citizenship not only amplifies the figure of your legal security, but it also provides a higher degree of protection against deportation that is generally the case. 

Besides, a U.S. passport allows U.S. citizens to travel. They also have access to a number of government benefits. 

However, the provision of emotional security is one of the most significant benefits of Citizenship. It enables one to build a stable family unit and ensures long-term peace of mind. 

Therefore, the conversion of a permanent resident to a Citizen tends to be a remarkable and life-changing step. 

Basic Eligibility Requirements for Citizenship 

There are some requirements you must fulfil before you can apply.  

• One of which is that you must be a permanent resident. 

• In general, you should have your permanent resident card for five years. On the other hand, if you are the spouse of a citizen of the U.S., you may lodge your application after three years.  

• In both cases, the principle of continuous residence is non-negotiable. 

• You should also be physically present in the U.S. for at least half of the required period. 

• Another requirement is that of good moral character which must be evidenced by the applicant. 

• Having a criminal record may be a sufficient reason for the denial of your application. 

• Lastly, you should be able to demonstrate knowledge of and familiarity with English along with the principles and practices of civics. 

Candidacy for naturalization is built on the assumption that you already meet these basic requirements. 

Continuous Residence and Physical Presence Explained 

Continuous residence means that you haven’t spent a very long time away from your home in America. Going out for a short trip or two doesn’t usually cause any problems. 

But, if a single trip lasts more than half a year, you may get in trouble. 

If you stay out of the country for over a year, it very likely means that your continuous residence is broken. 

In that case, you will have to start counting days all over again, i.e., the waiting period begins anew at zero. 

Physical presence is quite different as it refers to the actual days that you have been inside the U.S. 

Try and make sure that all my travel records are kept safely at hand. 

The Good Moral Character Requirement 

Citizenship applicants must demonstrate their good moral character throughout the statutory period. 

• Some criminal convictions are such that they automatically disqualify the applicants. 

• There are also certain tax issues that can pose a problem. 

• Failing to provide support for one’s children also raises questions. 

• And lying to an immigration officer is one of the sure ways to end up in deep trouble. 

Yet not every time a person is rejected because of a mistake. It all depends on specific facts in each case. 

Therefore, it is advisable that Citizenship candidates carry out a thorough check of their past records before filing their applications. 

The Naturalization Application: Form N-400 

Your pathway to Citizenship starts with the filing of an application (Form N-400) with the USCIS. 

The application prompts the applicant to furnish intimate personal information. The questions cover residence, employment, travel, and criminal background. 

Besides, you should always be honest and not make your answer to be contradictory as such may cause a delay in your process. 

Support documentation should also be submitted, including copies of your green card and travel records. 

Certainly, you can also pay the filing fee unless you are eligible for a waiver. Once you turn in your papers, the Citizenship process has officially begun. 

What Happens After You Apply 

You will receive a formal acknowledgment that your application Form N-400 has been filed. Later, you will proceed with a bio-metrics test. 

At the bio-metrics appointment, officials take fingerprints and photographs. After that, the background checks will be performed based on the information contained in your records. 

Eventually, you will be sent a letter telling you when to come to the interview. You are expected to be very patient in this time of waiting because mistakes can happen in email addresses or locations which will make the process longer. 

Preparing for the Citizenship Interview 

The interview is a really significant part of your application procedure. During the interview, the immigration officer will check and examine your forms. 

They will ask questions about your background, your eligibility, and your application. Always be truthful. 

Give honest, clear, and confident answers to strengthen your case. You should thoroughly re-study your Form N-400 before going to the interview. 

Have all the necessary documents with you. Getting ready decreases the tension factor inside you and it also heightens the probability of your success. 

The English and Civics Tests 

The majority of the applicants will be compelled to undergo an English test. This test assesses whether you can speak, listen, and write in English. 

The civics test, in addition to the language test, is the other requirement for Citizenship. 

The examination, in essence, tests one’s knowledge of the formal institutions and government as well as the history of the U.S. 

During the test, you will be asked about ten questions of which at least six should be correctly answered. 

On the bright side, there are many study materials publicly available. Regular practice results in a positive feeling and thus, boosts confidence. 

Based on age and years of residency, some applicants are eligible for exceptions. Hence, you should look for the eligibility requirements as a normal part of your study. 

Common Mistakes That Delay Citizenship 

You would be surprised at the number of mistakes applicants make. 

• Some people send incomplete forms. 

• Some forget to disclose the whole of their travel history. 

• Inconsistent information becomes a cause of delay quite often too. 

Besides, if you don’t bring the documents you need to the interview, you will have an issue. 

Tax obligations should also be followed up closely as failure to do so can lead to problems with Citizenship approval. 

If you give attention to your submission, you can prevent all these headaches from happening to you. 

What Happens If Citizenship Gets Denied 

On occasions, the Citizenship applications get declined. When the decision is negative, the person concerned will be given the reasons in writing. 

• The applicant has a right to a hearing if they disagrees with the decision. 

• They may also consider the option of reapplying in case the situation changes. 

Thus, one should not lose heart when facing denial as instead of the conclusion of the road, in some cases, it may just be another stop along the journey. 

One’s best next step can be determined with the help of professional advice. 

The Oath of Allegiance Ceremony 

Naturalization ceremony is the final step after grant of citizenship. You will reaffirm your loyalty to the United States by taking the Oath of Allegiance at this ceremony. 

Subsequently, you will become an American citizen. At the same time, you will receive a Certificate of Naturalization. This document signifies your status as a citizen, you should always keep it safe. 

Rights and Responsibilities of Citizenship 

Citizenship is a status that carries with it many rights. Among such rights are the right to vote, to sit on a jury, and others. 

On the other hand, as a citizen, you are also beholden to the obligations of Citizenship. Citizens are required to obey the law, serve as jurors when asked, and so on. 

These fundamental principles are the guiding lights for living a responsible and democratic life. 

How Long the Citizenship Process Takes 

Citizenship application processing times can vary quite a lot. There are those who are able to accomplish the whole process in a matter of months while others are kept waiting for a considerable delay. 

Since the application volume varies from location to location, the processing speed is also influenced by this fact. 

Nevertheless, it is always a good idea to stay focused and be fully engaged so that when the time comes, you would not be in any way caught off guard. 

Be prompt in your responses and make sure to attend all your appointments. 

Get your interviews done well in advance to minimize the risk of any unforeseen circumstances. 

By doing so, you will ensure that the whole process of Citizenship is ever moving forward and never stalling. 

Special Paths to Citizenship 

There are many people outside of the general public who may obtain Citizenship through a category exclusive to them. 

• U.S. military personnel are eligible for the expedited application process as a matter of right. 

• People with refugee and asylum status also have different timelines. 

• Under certain circumstances, children may be granted Citizenship automatically. 

Every group has its own rule. Learning and comprehending these rules ensure that the right documents are filed. 

Get help! 

Application for Citizenship is a process that demands careful planning. However, with professional guidance, the path becomes smoother as you get less chances of making mistakes that can be very costly. 

Do not hesitate to seek help if you are not clear about eligibility factors or documentations. You are the only one who can create your future. 

Why don’t you get a qualified immigration lawyer from Gehi and Associates, and have a consultation to get great tips according to your case. 

Citizenship is a turning point in one’s life. The first step in your journey is to have certainty and to be well informed. 

Get in touch with us today! 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. How long do I need to be a green card holder before I can apply for Citizenship? 

Normally, you need to have a green card for five years unless you’re married to a citizen, then it’s three years. 

2. Will traveling affect my Citizenship eligibility? 

Yes, if during your travels you are away from the country for too long, it will interrupt your continuous residence. 

3. What is the form used for starting the Citizenship process? 

We filed the Citizenship application using Form N-400. 

4. Is there a need for me to pass a test? 

Definitely, most people need to take the English and civics tests before Citizenship. 

5. Will a criminal record influence the decision on my Citizenship? 

Yes, the opposite may result in the disqualification of your application. 

6. What should be done after approval? 

After approval, you need to attend a naturalization ceremony. 

7. Am I allowed to retain my original nationality? 

That depends on your home country. 

8. How long does it take to become a citizen? 

Factors affecting the length of the process include the location where the application is made, thus the variation in processing times. 

9. If I get denied will I be allowed to apply again? 

Yes, you can restructure your case and reapply. 

10. At what point do I become a citizen? 

The moment you take the Oath of Allegiance.