Citizenship and Naturalization in South Florida

When you choose The Santos Law Offices, you will have access to bilingual attorneys and staff who are well-versed in immigration law. Our citizenship and naturalization lawyer in South Florida will help you through the entire process, from beginning to end.

Naturalization and Citizenship Requirements

You must meet the eligibility requirements to go through the citizenship and naturalization process in South Florida. You must:

Be at least 18 years old
Have been a lawful permanent resident of the U.S. for at least five years or three years if you are married to a U.S. citizen
Maintain continuous physical residence and presence in the country
Have basic English reading, writing, and speaking skills
Be of good moral character
Have knowledge and understanding of U.S. government and history

The Citizenship And Naturalization Process

Your South Florida citizenship and naturalization lawyer will help you fill out N-400. Then, your attorney will submit the form, additional documents, and two passport-style photos to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Also, you’ll need to provide your fingerprints, so the U.S. government can run a background check on you.

After receiving your paperwork, the USCIS will set up a naturalization interview. Once you arrive, you’ll be asked questions and take the English and civics test. Then, you will receive a decision for your citizenship. If your application is approved, there’s just one more step. You will take the Oath of Allegiance to the United States and receive the Certificate of Naturalization.

What If Your Application Is Denied?

Your chance for citizenship isn’t over if your application is denied. Instead, your South Florida citizenship and naturalization lawyer can appeal the decision or help you file a new application. First, the attorney will determine if you have grounds for appeal. Then, your citizenship lawyer can file Form N-366. You’ll attend an appeals hearing, where your attorney will present evidence that supports your citizenship.

However, your attorney might recommend applying again instead of appealing due to the reason for the denial. This is most common when an application is denied due to a crime of moral turpitude. These crimes remain on your record for five years. If you wait until the five years pass, you’ll have a clear record, increasing the likelihood of approval when reapplying. Your attorney will discuss the best path forward for your situation based on the reason for the denial.

Taking The English And Civics Test

You will take the English and civics tests during your interview with USCIS. If you fail a portion of the test, you will retake that section 60-90 days after the interview. Then, if you fail the test the second time, your South Florida citizenship and naturalization lawyer can file an appeal for you to take it a third time. However, you cannot take it a fourth time. Instead, you will have to start the citizenship process over again if you fail the third time. While you might be frightened about taking the test, the USCIS provides free study materials on its website. Use those materials to prepare for your test, and speak to your attorney to get additional guidance.

What If You Have Arrests Or Convictions?

If you have an arrest, conviction, or even a lot of speeding tickets, consulting with a South Florida citizenship and naturalization lawyer before applying is critical. You run the risk of denial and possible removal proceedings if you attempt to apply yourself. After examining your record, your attorney can advise you if you should apply for citizenship or wait for your record to clear. With the right legal strategy, you will reduce the risk of being forced to leave the country.

Why Choose Santos Law Offices