Citizenship and Naturalization

U.S. citizenship is a privilege and honor which allows you to:

- - vote in federal elections;
  - remain permanently in the United States;
  - avoid deportation even if convicted of a serious crime*;>
  - obtain certain government benefits;
  - become eligible for federal jobs;
  - become an elected official;
  - serve on a jury;
  - travel with a U.S. passport; and
  - obtain certain government benefits.

Call 617-926-8944 or click here to set up a consultation with one of our experienced immigration lawyers to discuss U.S. citizenship and Naturalization. Our Watertown immigration attorneys have experience obtaining citizenship for our clients through interviews at: USCIS Boston and USCIS Lawrence.

CITIZENSHIP

It is possible to be a U.S. citizen and not realize it. Do not take the risk of assuming you are a citizen however, because a false claim to citizenship has serious immigration consequences. If you think you might be a U.S. citizen but are unsure, feel free to contact our experienced immigration attorneys, who can assist you with the process of verifying your citizenship.

USEFUL LINKS

USCIS Citizenship Resource Center

Study Materials for the English Test

Study Materials for the Civics Test

Naturalization Self Test

NATURALIZATION

Naturalization is the process by which a person is granted United States citizenship. In order to apply for naturalization you must:

- - - be a legal permanent resident, otherwise known as a green card holder;
    - be eighteen years old (however minors can obtain citizenship through their parents);
    - have maintained continuous U.S. residence for the last five years (three years if married to and living with a U.S. citizen);
    - must be physically present in the United States for at least half of the last five years (half of the last three years if married to and living with a U.S. citizen);
    - be a person of good moral character for the last five years (three years if married to and living with a U.S. citizen);
    - demonstrate knowledge of the English language and the fundamentals of U.S. history and government (Note: there are exceptions to the English language and civics requirements depending on your age and length of time as a legal permanent resident).

If you meet these requirements, you may be eligible to be naturalized as a U.S. citizen. If you are eligible it is recommended you do not wait, as life circumstances, such as an arrest, could result in you losing your eligibility. It could even result in deportation.

The experienced immigration attorneys at LaFountain & Wollman, P.C. are prepared to assist you with every step of this exciting and complicated process.