You may need a lawyer to apply for citizenship if you want to have a stronger chance of getting the approval you need to stay in the country. An attorney can guide you through each step of the process, answer your questions, and provide the support you deserve.
The process of applying for naturalization (or citizenship) is complex and takes a significant amount of time. You do not have to try to navigate this process on your own. You can get help today from an El Paso immigration lawyer.
Why Do You Need a Lawyer to Apply for Citizenship?
Having an attorney on your side as you apply for naturalization means you’ll always have someone looking out for your best interests and explaining the precise steps you need to take. Working with an attorney can bolster your chances of successfully completing the naturalization process.
Your attorney will take the time to:
- Ensure that you qualify to apply for citizenship
- Prepare you to begin the process
- Answer any questions you have as you seek naturalization
- Provide the help and support you need with all legal matters
You can have someone on your side, focusing on your needs and providing the support you deserve during this exciting and challenging time.
How Do You Apply for Citizenship With a Lawyer?
To apply for citizenship, you’ll need to:
Create an Account With U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
You’ll have to create an official account with USCIS as your first step towards naturalization. You can create your account online. You’ll need to provide personal information to create your account. An attorney can tell you more about this process.
Fill Out Form N-400, Application for Naturalization
You’ll need to complete Form N-400 as your next step in applying for citizenship. You can download this form directly from the government website. A lawyer can review the form before you submit it to ensure you include all the correct and necessary information.
Submitting an improperly completed form can slow down your application, so it’s crucial that you get professional help with this process.
Submit Your Application
Once you complete Form N-400, you need to submit it to the USCIS. You can submit the form online or by mail.
Submitting online comes with several benefits, as it allows you to:
- Pay the filing fee from your computer
- Easily check your application’s status
- Get case updates and notifications
- Check out the estimated dates for your case completion
- See requests for evidence
However, you can send the form through the mail if you prefer.
Prepare for Your Civics Test
You will also need to take and pass a civics test to complete the naturalization process. Your attorney can give you information about this test and ensure you know what to expect.
You may find that you do need a lawyer to apply for citizenship due to the benefits of having a legal professional on your side.
When Will You Need to File Your N-400?
You can file your N-400 90 calendar days before the completion of your continuous residence requirement, as long as your eligibility is based on living as a permanent resident for a minimum of five years or living as a permanent resident for a minimum of three years with a marriage to a U.S. citizen.
An attorney can tell you more about when to file if the above does not apply to you or if you have more questions about the specifics of your situation.
How Much Does It Cost to File Your N-400?
The filing fee for your N-400 is usually over $700. The exact prices vary based on how you send in the form, with individuals who apply online paying less than those who mail in the N-400.
You may pay a reduced rate based on your documented annual household income. Additionally, individuals who meet certain criteria through the Immigration and Nationality Act sections 328 or 329 can apply for free.
Your attorney can give you more information about these costs.
Get the Help You Need as You Apply for Citizenship
Do you need a lawyer to apply for citizenship? While you can complete this process without legal help, having an attorney on your side can boost your odds of getting the outcome you want and make the process less stressful and confusing.
Our team at Mendoza Law can provide the help you need. Attorney Maria and the rest of our team have over 100 years of combined legal experience, and we’re ready to do what it takes to help with your citizenship journey.
We’ve helped over 100,000 clients, and we’re standing by now to provide the support you need. We can answer any questions you have about immigration, explain all the necessary forms, and walk you through every step you need to take during naturalization.
