U.S. Citizenship Lawyers

For many permanent residents, U.S. citizenship is an important step in their lives. With citizenship, you’ll gain voting rights, expanded job opportunities, and full participation in American life. However, the path to citizenship often involves multiple steps, eligibility checks, strict documentation, and a long waiting period.

At Border Solutions Law Group, our U.S. immigration lawyers based in Vancouver and Washington regularly advise our clients about navigating the United States citizenship process. Our immigration experience ranges from answering your initial eligibility questions to addressing potential denials. Whether you’re thinking about getting started or in the middle of your application process, we’re ready to help. Contact our team today to schedule a consultation.

The U.S. Citizenship Application Process

Although individual circumstances may vary, most U.S. citizenship applicants go through the following general stages:

1. Confirm Your Eligibility

• You’ll need to review your length of permanent residence (green card status), physical presence in the U.S., English language skills, and whether you meet character requirements. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has strict guidelines for assessing these factors.

2. Prepare & Submit Your Application for Naturalization

• You will normally need to submit Form N-400 to begin the citizenship application process. You must provide accurate information on your residency history, employment, prior travel, and any criminal or immigration violations.
• This step will also necessitate that you include filing fees and all required supporting documents (green card copy, marriage certificates, etc.) to complete your application.
• USCIS can be strict when assessing the documentation that you have submitted. This is why it can be helpful to consult with a legal professional when compiling your application package.

3. Attend Your Biometrics Appointment

• USCIS will collect fingerprints, photographs, and signatures to conduct security checks.

4. Complete Your Citizenship Interview & Test

• Applicants must demonstrate their proficiency in English (including reading, writing, and speaking) and civics (U.S. history and government) unless they are specifically exempt based on age or disability.
• The USCIS officer may also verify the information in your N-400 and ask questions about your background. Our U.S. immigration lawyers can help prepare you for your interview, so you can feel confident about the process.

5. Receive the Decision & Attend Oath Ceremony

• If your citizenship is approved, USCIS will issue a notice for the oath ceremony to attend, where you officially become a U.S. citizen.
• A certificate of naturalization will be granted, enabling you to apply for a U.S. passport and subsequently enjoy the benefits of full citizenship.

Who is Eligible for Citizenship?

Eligibility for U.S. citizenship typically falls into a few key categories:

• Five-Year Rule (General): Most applicants must be permanent residents for at least five years, maintain continuous residence, and meet physical presence requirements.
• Three-Year Rule (Marriage to a U.S. Citizen): Spouses of U.S. citizens may apply after three years of permanent residence if they meet additional conditions.
• Good Moral Character: USCIS will assess your criminal and personal history.
• Language & Civics Knowledge: You should generally be able to communicate in basic English and understand U.S. history, government, and civics. Sometimes this requirement is not necessary when an exemption or waiver applies to your situation.

Some individuals might also qualify for expedited or streamlined naturalization if they served in the U.S. military at some point in the past. Confirming your eligibility with a U.S. immigration lawyer will ensure that no important details are overlooked as you begin the naturalization process.

Types of Citizenship in the U.S.

1. Citizenship by Naturalization

Naturalization is the process by which lawful permanent residents become U.S. citizens once they fulfill all USCIS residency, language, and other statutory requirements.

2. Citizenship by Birth

Anyone born on U.S. soil (including certain U.S. territories) automatically qualifies for citizenship under the principle of jus soli. This also applies to children of U.S. citizens who are born abroad if they meet specific conditions and residency requirements.

3. Derivative Citizenship

In some cases, children can obtain U.S. citizenship through their parents, often referred to as “derivative citizenship.” For example, in certain cases, a child can become a U.S. citizen if at least one parent naturalizes and the child is of a certain age (under 18) and has lived in the U.S. for a specified period of time. Verifying derivative citizenship often involves compiling birth certificates, proof of a parent’s citizenship, and relevant legal documents, like adoption records.

How Long Does it Take to Obtain Citizenship?

Naturalization timelines can vary significantly due to:

• USCIS Backlogs: Workload at local field offices and value of new applications.
• Case Complexity: Applicants with frequent travel, extended absences, or prior legal issues may need to wait for longer review times.
• Interviews & Oath Scheduling: Delays sometimes happen between passing your citizenship test and scheduling the oath ceremony, after which you’ll receive your certificate of naturalization.

Currently, many applicants complete the naturalization process within 6 to 12 months, though some cases can be faster or slower. Staying updated on USCIS processing times and consulting with our Vancouver immigration lawyers who handle U.S. immigration matters can help you form a more accurate timeline based on your situation.

What Action Can I Take if USCIS Denies My Application?

If your citizenship application is denied by USCIS, there are several different actions you can take to appeal the decision you have received. With the help of an experienced immigration lawyer, you can explore the right option for you. These might include:

• Administrative Review or Reapplication: If the denial is based on you not meeting certain thresholds (like insufficient days of residence or test failures), you may want to consider reapplying once you’ve solidly met all requirements.
• Appeal or Hearing Request: Under certain circumstances, when you’ve been denied, you may be allowed to request a hearing with a USCIS officer. If you can successfully demonstrate that there was an error, your application decision may be reversed.
• Judicial Review: If you have already tried other legal options, you may want to consider bringing your case to a U.S. District Court. Although this pathway is complex, with the assistance of experienced legal representation, you can argue your case for citizenship before a judge.

How Can Border Solutions Law Group Help Me Obtain Citizenship?

Navigating the path to U.S. citizenship can be exciting but also intimidating. From gathering extensive documentation to passing the English and civics tests, any oversight in your application can delay your becoming a U.S. citizen. At Border Solutions Law Group, our team of dedicated immigration lawyers in Vancouver and the U.S. understand the hurdles you might face, whether you’re just beginning or have encountered obstacles along the way.

Here are some ways we can assist throughout the process:

• Eligibility Verification & Strategic Advice: We review your entire immigration history, residency timeline, and personal circumstances to ensure that you meet USCIS requirements. If certain thresholds are unmet, like the physical presence rule or good moral character standard, we can advise you on the optimal timing to apply or potential remedies before you submit your application.
• Document Preparation: Our lawyers will ensure your Form N-400 package and supporting evidence are complete and coherent. Well-organized filings will reduce the likelihood of you receiving RFEs (Requests for Evidence) and unjust denials.
• Addressing Complications & Denials: If you have any prior arrests, extended absences from the U.S., or issues with previous immigration applications, we can help you explore waivers, clarifications, or additional proof to prevent surprises. In case of a denial, we’ll evaluate whether an appeal, a hearing request, or a reapplication is more suitable for your situation.
• Interview & Test Preparation: Many applicants worry about the English or civics exam and potential scrutiny of their application or background at the USCIS interview. Our U.S. immigration lawyers offer guidance on how to respond to commonly asked questions, supply any updated documents, and help you confidently present your case.
• Appeals & Post-Decision Support: If a denial or complication arises, we can thoroughly analyze the decision that has been issued. Our team will advise you on whether a motion to reopen, appeal, or judicial review is viable, or if reapplying with improved evidence is the better route.

By partnering with Border Solutions Law Group, you tap into a network of knowledgeable advocates who prioritize your objectives and can guide you through the process with confidence. If you’re ready to embark on the journey to U.S. citizenship, or if you’ve run into challenges, contact our U.S. immigration team in Vancouver today.

Ready to Pursue U.S. Citizenship? Consult With Our U.S. Immigration Lawyers Today

At Border Solutions Law Group, our Vancouver immigration lawyers can demystify the steps towards citizenship and advocate on your behalf. Whether you’re just starting your application, looking to overcome a challenge, or fighting a denial, contact us today to protect your interests and move confidently towards becoming a U.S. citizen. You can call our Vancouver office toll-free at 604-684-4211, or fill out our online contact form now.