Naturalization is a big step for any foreign-born worker. Foreign-born workers understand the importance and significance of becoming U.S. citizens. They deserve expert advice and support as they seek to complete the process.
The Graham Adair team is experienced in handling naturalization cases. We know the law. We know the process. We know how to prepare naturalization candidates for their exams. Our legal team will work side-by-side with your foreign-born workers to achieve their dreams of becoming citizens.
About Naturalization
Naturalization is the process whereby adults over the age of eighteen, who are not legal citizens of this country, become citizens. Naturalization is completely voluntary. Your foreign-born employees are not required to be naturalized to continue working in the U.S. Those who do choose naturalization must take and pass a naturalization exam in order to become citizens.
Naturalization Requirements
In order to begin the process, applicants must:
- be at least 18 years old,
- have resided as a Permanent Resident in the U.S. for at least five years, or
- have resided as a Permanent Resident for at least three years if married to a U.S. citizen.
Eligibility Requirements
In addition to age and residency requirements, eligibility for naturalization requires:
- the ability to understand, read, and write basic English
- a basic understanding of U.S. history and government function
- a demonstration of good moral character
- a demonstration of attachment to constitutional principles and ideals.
All the eligibility requirements are verified by an immigration official at the time of the applicant’s naturalization exam. It is important that applicants be thoroughly prepared for this exam.
How Graham Adair Can Help
Our primary assistance for naturalization includes help completing and submitting the N-400 form and providing interview support.
Form N-400
Form N-400 is the Application for Naturalization in the U.S. Immigration law allows attorneys to complete the form on behalf of their clients. However, clients must furnish the appropriate proof of eligibility, including supporting documents. Examples of supporting documents include green cards, marriage certificates, and military records.
The completed form is sent to USCIS for review prior to scheduling the immigration review. That review serves two purposes: allowing agents to verify application information and administering the naturalization exam.
Prior to the interview, applicants must report to a USCIS office to complete a biometrics appointment. During this appointment, a USCIS takes the applicant’s picture, collects fingerprints, etc. The entire process takes about 30 minutes to complete. We thoroughly advise clients about this appointment ahead of it taking place.
Interview Support
The immigration interview is the most critical aspect of naturalization. During this interview, an applicant must verify information provided on form N-400. They must also pass the naturalization exam. That exam is conducted as part of the interview. It is divided into multiple sections, most of which are completed orally. Note that the exam includes reading and writing sections.
It is natural for applicants to be nervous during the interview. We assist our clients with interview preparation and support. Our support prepares applicants to pass the immigration exam, and provides them confidence ahead of the exam.
Our interview support includes assistance with the most common questions and answers relating to U.S. government function and American history. Through this assistance we arm applicants with the knowledge they need to correctly answer the questions posed during their interviews.
Support at a Critical Time
Making the decision to become a U.S. citizen is the start of a process that can take some time to complete. Throughout the process Graham Adair will assist with questions posed by the USCIS, submit the required documentation, and set and be prepared for the required appointments. We offer expert advice and support throughout the process and especially when naturalization candidates need it most.
We urge you and your workers to complete the naturalization process with the qualified legal advice and support of a Graham Adair attorney. With an experienced attorney from Graham Adair the chances of successful naturalization are far greater. Success is expected for naturalization clients.
