Becoming a United States citizen is a huge milestone for many people, and while things may seem simple at first, you’ll often find that the process can get complicated quickly, especially if you are facing common application speed bumps.
This is where a naturalization lawyer can be helpful; they can help you work through any of these bumps that may come up during the process and help you move forward.
At Mendoza Law, we’ve helped over 100,000 people with several immigration processes, including naturalization. We offer individualized support and ensure our clients come first. Reach out to us to get connected with a Silver Spring immigration lawyer for a free case consultation.
How Can a Naturalization Lawyer in Silver Spring Help Me?
A naturalization lawyer helps people from all walks of life who are going through the process of becoming U.S. citizens. While you don’t need to have a lawyer to apply for citizenship, having one can be beneficial.
Here are some of the ways they may be able to help you through the process:
- Reviewing your eligibility for naturalization
- Preparing your N-400 form accurately (this form is the initial step of the naturalization process)
- Helping you get ready for your citizenship interview and test that comes with it
- Helping with dates and appointments
- Responding to and assisting with any requests and denials from the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
- Answering any questions you may have along the way
Many people assume they only need legal help if they have a complicated case, but even minor paperwork errors may mean setbacks. A citizenship attorney can help you better understand the requirements for this process. They can also help you avoid common mistakes that may cause delays.
What are Some Common Speed Bumps That Can Come Up With Naturalization Applications?
Here are some of the most common situations that may cause denial or delays when applying for naturalization:
- Having a criminal history and prior arrests
- Not paying child support or taxes in the past
- Traveling for an extended period of time outside of the United States
- Having documentation that is incomplete or inconsistent
- Having prior immigration violations
- Filing errors, even if they are small
USCIS will carefully look at your past and the documents and paperwork you send in. Even if it’s your first time filing for naturalization, having legal guidance can be extremely helpful, and those who have had denials or need additional evidence can benefit even more from legal help.
A lawyer can take a look at your application and ensure correctness, address any weak points or red flags that USCIS may see, and help you address them before submitting.
What Should I Expect the Naturalization Process to Look Like?
The naturalization process follows a few general steps.
Keep in mind that these may differ a little bit depending on your specific situation, but here is what you can typically expect:
- Fill out a Form N-400 with USCIS: Make sure to read the instructions and collect all the information needed for this form. If you live outside of the United States, you will have to get 2 passport-style photos taken.
- Submit your form and pay the required fees: Make sure to submit your form and pay the necessary fees, which you can do online. You’ll receive a receipt notice for confirmation and to check your case status.
- If applicable, go to your biometrics appointment: The biometrics appointment is a mandatory meeting for the naturalization process where USCIS collects things like your fingerprints, photos, and signature to confirm your identity. You’ll receive a date, time, and location for this appointment. You’ll need to bring the Form I-797C, which will be mailed to you, a valid photo ID, and any other requested paperwork.
- Attend and complete your interview: Once the steps from above have been completed, USCIS will schedule a date for your interview and civics test.
- Wait for a decision from USCIS: You can wait to receive your decision in the mail or check online. There are three options: Granted, which means you are eligible for naturalization; continued, which means you may need to submit additional evidence or paperwork; and denied, which means you are not eligible for naturalization.
- Take the Oath of Allegiance: This is the naturalization ceremony, and you are not a U.S. citizen until you take this oath. You’ll get a time and date for this, if not the same day as your interview.
Not everyone is eligible to apply for naturalization. You can check online, but a naturalization lawyer in Silver Spring can also help you figure that out, if you would rather talk to a person.
What are Some Benefits of Becoming Naturalized?
Becoming a United States citizen (naturalized) can come with lots of benefits that can impact several aspects of your life.
Along with the ability to live in the United States permanently, you’ll also find the following benefits:
- The right to vote in federal elections
- Eligibility for a U.S. passport
- Protection from deportation in most situations
- Ability to sponsor certain family members for immigration benefits
- Access to some federal jobs and government benefits
- The opportunity to participate fully in civic life
For many families, citizenship also creates a stronger sense of security and long-term belonging in the United States.
Get in Touch With a Naturalization Law Firm in Silver Spring Today
Applying for naturalization can be a huge step for you and your loved ones, and can shape your future. While it may seem straightforward, it may not be for everyone. Whether you are filing for the first time or are dealing with a denial after you’ve applied for naturalization, having legal representation can be extremely helpful throughout the process.
At Mendoza Law, we have over a hundred years of combined experience with immigration law, and we aim to provide individualized support to each of our clients. Whether you have general questions about the naturalization process or have already started, we can help you move forward with confidence.
Reach out to our firm for a free consultation. The fight continues.