In today's volatile political climate, an increasing number of immigrants are exploring the possibility of naturalization.  Recent government actions to curb legal immigration, rescind the DACA Program and construct a border wall are likely at the center of this rising tide of interest.  While lawful permanent residents and those eligible to become lawful permanent residents are not directly affected by these recent immigration policies, the indirect effect and the uncertainty of the future have caused many to seek information about naturalization.  Today's blog will highlight the major benefits of becoming a naturalized United States Citizen.

Avoiding Deportion

Even a lawful permanent resident is subject to removal from the United States under certain circumstances.  The primary cause of removal of a lawful permanent resident relates to commission of certain types of crimes, such as an aggravated felony of multiple crimes involving moral turpitude.  If a lawful permanent resident has committed one or more crimes, but the crimes were long ago, he might be eligible for naturalization.  Doing so now would avoid possible deportion based on a future change in enforcement policy.

Obtaining Immigration Benefits for Relatives

Certain categories of relatives are eligible to immigrate to the United States, or to immigrate on a faster track, based on a family relationship with a United States Citizen, as opposed to a family relationship with a lawful permanent resident.  For example, a U.S. citizen may petition for a foreign national sibling, but a lawful permanent resident may not. 

Eligibility to Vote

Immigration law and policy is a hotly debated topic today.  Since immigration laws are implemented by duly elected political leaders, and immigration policy is determined and implemented by politicala leaders, many immigrants are naturalizing so that they can exercise the precious right to vote.  Voting is the most powerful way to influence the public policy debate, and is only available to United States citizens. 

Ability to Live Outside the United States

In today's global economy, many lawful permanent residents find themselves assigned to work in overseas positions for lengthy periods of time.  Living outside the United States in excess of 6 continuous months, absent advance parole, leads to abandonment of permanent resident status.  Further, living outside the United States, or even frequent trips outside the United States, can break the continuous residence requirement necessary for naturalization.  Obtaining citizenship through naturalization while eligible avoids a potential future ineligibility due to residence outside the United States.

In today's political climate, many questions arise relating to immigration and naturalization.  Individuals and families need expert legal advice to guide their decisions and ensure that immigration complications do not destroy their family relationships and financial livelihood.  Christiansen Law Firm has extensive experience representing individuals and families in immigration matters.  For additional information concerning your particular circumstances, contact the offices of Christiansen Law Firm in San Antonio or Houston.