Applying for U.S. Citizenship in Florida

Applying to become a U.S. citizen is not a simple task. Mistakes can cause delays, unnecessary expenses, and even denials. By working with a qualified immigration attorney, you can get help determining your eligibility for naturalization and completing the application.

At Robert M. Bell, P.A., we are immigration and nationality lawyers who can help guide you through the U.S. citizenship and naturalization application process and assist if problems arise. We have the knowledge and experience to maximize your chances of success, as we have helped countless people in Hollywood and across South Florida.

Requirements for U.S. Citizenship

When you start looking into becoming a U.S. citizen, it is essential to know the basic requirements you must satisfy. You must:

• Be of the minimum age: The minimum age to apply for naturalization is 18.
• Have a green card: You need to be a green cardholder to apply to become a U.S. citizen. Typically, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) requires applicants to have held a green card for three or five years.
• Live in the United States: You must demonstrate continuous residence and physical presence there. Trips outside the U.S. for longer than six months can impact your eligibility.
• Good moral character: You must demonstrate that you have exhibited good moral character for the past three or five years before filing your application, depending on your eligibility category. Acts outside of that period can also be considered. It is essential to speak to an attorney before filing your application.
• Pass the naturalization test: You must be able to complete an English language test that evaluates your writing, reading, and speaking skills. The naturalization test also includes a portion that evaluates your U.S. history and government knowledge. An immigration lawyer can help determine if you qualify for an exception to the testing requirement.
• Swear allegiance to the United States: You will attend a public swearing-in ceremony that affirms your commitment to the Constitution, the responsibilities of a U.S. citizen, and an oath of allegiance.

By completing the citizenship process, you earn complete freedom from any future deportation efforts and gain the ability to vote in U.S. elections. Citizens of the United States have extensive freedoms that can only be appreciated by those who have not experienced them.

How Long to Become a U.S. Citizen After Filing the N-400?

When you apply for U.S. Citizenship, you will file Form N-400, the Application for Naturalization. If completed correctly and backed with sufficient evidence, your N-400 could be approved within 12 to 18 months, depending on the processing times at your local USCIS field office. An experienced naturalization lawyer can help prepare the appropriate documentation.

How to Prepare for the Naturalization Exam

Many U.S. citizenship applicants are worried about the naturalization exam, a two-part evaluation that tests applicants’ English language abilities and their knowledge of the U.S. government and history. For the English portion of the test, you will be examined on your ability to speak and understand, write in, and read English. The civics portion of the test is oral, where a USCIS officer will ask you questions from a pool of potential questions, which will be provided to you in advance.

There are exceptions to the testing requirements based on qualifying disabilities or age and length of time in the U.S. as a lawful permanent resident.

Other Considerations

If you’re interested in becoming a U.S. citizen, it is also essential to consider the actual application process. We will explain the expected steps in your case. Here is a brief overview of how your application process could look:

• Application for Naturalization: The first step in applying for U.S. citizenship is to file Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, and pay the filing fees. You may be exempt from filing fees or be able to file earlier than your three- or five-year wait period. Speak with your attorney for more information.
• Biometrics appointment: After USCIS receives your application, you will be scheduled for fingerprinting and asked to provide other information at your local USCIS application support center.
• Citizenship interview and exam: Your local USCIS field office will conduct an interview. During this interview, the USCIS officer will verify the information on your application and give you the two-part naturalization exam described above.
• Oath of allegiance: If your application is approved, you will become a U.S. citizen after taking your loyalty oath.

Working with an attorney to help you through the application process for citizenship is invaluable. Your lawyer will ensure you are eligible to apply for citizenship, advise you of any risks involved, and ensure that the proper documents are submitted.

Contact an Immigration Attorney to Help With U.S. Naturalization

At Robert M. Bell, P.A., we are excited and happy to help you become a U.S. citizen. We know just how important this momentous occasion can be, and we will work to ensure that you avoid mistakes and delays when submitting your paperwork. To get started, contact our office today at 954-241-4209.