Naturalization Process in San Antonio TX
San Antonio Immigration Lawyers
Why Use An Immigration Attorney for Naturaliztation – San Antonio
If you are a legal permanent resident of the United States living in or around the San Antonio, TX area and thinking about becoming a U.S. citizen, you may want to reach out to a local immigration lawyer before you apply. A qualified immigration attorney can sit down with you to discuss your case and make sure that you have everything you need to be successful on your path to citizenship.
What Qualifies Me To Apply for Naturalization in San Antonio TX?
You may apply for naturalization if you meet the following requirements:
You are at least 18 years of age at the time of filing (except active-duty members of the U.S. Armed Forces);
If you are a male between the ages of 18 and 26, you registered for the U.S. Selective Service
You are a permanent resident of the United States for either 3 or 5 years, depending on how you became a resident;
You have lived within the state or USCIS district where you claim residence for at least 3 months prior to filing;
You have demonstrated physical presence within the United States for a required period of time;
You have demonstrated continuous residence for a required period of time;
You demonstrate good moral character;
You demonstrate an attachment to the principles and ideals of the U.S. Constitution;
You demonstrate a basic knowledge of U.S. history and government (also known as “civics”) as well as an ability to read, write, speak and understand basic English (this requirement may be waived if you qualify for certain exempstions); and
You are willing to take an Oath of Allegiance to the United States. Some applicants may be eligible for a modified oath
Understanding what exactly each of these requirements means when applied to your situation can be confusing and sometimes difficult to understand. An immigration attorney can review your personal information to make sure that you qualify to submit your application for naturalization.
The Naturalization Process in San Antonio TX
When you submit your application to become a citizen of the United States, you will go through a process called naturalization. The steps themselves are not difficult though sometimes trying to understand exactly what is being asked of you can be confusing. If you feel comfortable filing on your own, you may submit the application online through the USCIS website along with all of your required evidence and the filing fee, or you may submit everything through the mail.
You will need to complete an application called form N-400 Application for Naturalization. This form is used to collect all of your relevant current and past information to determine your eligibility to naturalize. You will submit this form along with all of the applicable documentary evidence required and the filing fee. Once your application is accepted by USCIS and placed in process, you will be set up for a biometrics appointment to take fingerprints and photos. USCIS will use this information to run a background check. After a few months or so, an interview notice will be sent to you to let you know when and where to appear for your interview and exam. If you pass, a USCIS officer will usually let you know that same day if you are being recommended for approval. You will then receive a notice in the mail to appear for a ceremony where you will take the Oath of Allegiance to the United States and officially become a U.S. citizen.
The entire process of naturalization takes anywhere from about 10 months to a year to complete, depending on processing times in your area.
When Should I Consult With an Attorney in San Antonio TX About Naturalization?
If you are a legal permanent resident living in the San Antonio or Central Texas area, and you think you meet all of the requirements to apply for naturalization, then you may be ready to speak with an immigration attorney about your case.
Immigration attorneys keep up the ever-changing laws and procedures for legalization and citizenship to make sure that your case has the best chance of approval. The attorney will review your immigration documents, civil documents, and ask you questions about your personal history. You should be prepared to give as much detailed information as you can whenever you meet with the immigration attorney. The more information you give about yourself, your goals, and your concerns, the better your attorney can serve you to the best of their ability. Remember that all information you provide to the attorney is kept completely confidential, whether or not you decide to hire them.
Let us help you on the path to U.S. Citizenship. Together we can work to make sure you avoid any potential problems or unnecessary risks in the application process. Call us and connect with us today to request your free consultation. See Also Employment based Visas .