Lawful permanent residents, otherwise known as "green card holders" often have questions about the naturalization process.  While there are several different paths to becoming a U.S. citizen, this week's blog post summarizes the eligibility requirements for a lawful permanent resident to become a naturalized United States citizen under normal circumstances.

WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT PATHS TO UNITED STATES CITIZENSHIP?

For most lawful permanent residents, the most common path to U.S. citizenship is known as "naturalization".   Members of the U.S. armed forces and their families may become U.S. citizens through a different path, which will be discussed in a later blog.  Some individuals are eligible to establish their citizenship through their family relationship, and therefore are not required to follow the path of naturalization.  

 WHAT ARE THE ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS FOR NATURALIZATION?

A lawful permanent resident must prove the following to qualify for naturalization:

1.  Be 18 or older at the time of filing

2.  Be a green card holder for at leaste 5 years immediately before the filing of the naturalization application

3.  Have lived within the state (or U.S.C.I.S. district with jurisdiction over the applicant's place of residence) for at least 3 months prior to the filing of the application

4.  Have continuous residence in the United States as a green card holder for at least 5 years immediately before the filing of the naturalization application

5.  Be physically present in the United States for at least 30 months out the 5 years immediately before the filing of the naturalization application

6.  Reside continuously within the United States for at least from the date of application up to the time of naturalization

7.  Be able to read, write and speak English and have knowledge of and an understanding of U.S. history and government; and

8.  Be a person of good moral character, attached to the principles of the Constitution of the United States, and well disposed to the good order and happiness of the United States.

If you're considering applying for naturalization, you don't have to go through the process alone.  Individuals need quality legal representation to advocate for their rights.  Christiansen Law Firm partners with individuals seeking naturalization to secure favorable outcomes.  The immigration lawyers of Christiansen Law Firm have extensive experience handling naturalization cases, and can assist you with the process. Contact Christiansen Law Firm to schedule a free consultation regarding your naturalization application.