One of the most complex administrative processes is trying to apply to become a U.S. citizen. The amount of paperwork and requirements involved can seem almost endless, but there is a tool that can help. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) provides the free Naturalization Eligibility Tool. It’s a questionnaire that serves as a guide to determine if it’s the best time to begin the process.
The tool: It doesn’t necessarily mean that the result will be favorable at the end of the official process
It is very important to keep in mind that this questionnaire is intended as an initial guide for those planning to complete Form N-400. It does not replace the final USCIS review nor does it represent an official decision on the application. This is very important because even if the applicant’s result is favorable at the end of the questionnaire, it does not necessarily mean that the result will be favorable at the end of the official process.
Important: there are individuals and organizations offering assistance with immigration procedures without being authorized
USCIS also advises always seeking official, government-certified sources. As has been proven, there are individuals and organizations offering assistance with immigration procedures without being authorized, which can expose applicants to scams or delays. It is important to always go to the source of information online and, if in doubt, go to the offices in person. Many people may have spent years trying to regularize their status in the country, which can lead to despair. Having US citizenship can be very beneficial, especially for those with families, children, and older adults to care for.
Contact an authorized immigration legal services provider for advice, which may be provided free or at a low cost
According to the official U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services website, these are the steps to follow to apply for naturalization in the country. First, contact an authorized immigration legal services provider for advice, which may be provided free or at a low cost. Next, create an account at myaccount.uscis.gov and finally, prepare Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, and submit your application.
Once the application is submitted, which can be done electronically along with the corresponding payment, a receipt notification is issued, and the status of the case can be checked on the digital platform. It’s important to retain proof of payment, as any errors in the application will be necessary for a potential claim. After this, the next step is to wait. A meeting will then be scheduled at the designated office. There, questions will be answered, and the civic knowledge and English proficiency assessment will be completed.
If approved, a naturalization ceremony can be scheduled for the same day as the interview
The result may be the approval, postponement, or denial of citizenship for failure to meet all the requirements. If approved, a naturalization ceremony can be scheduled for the same day as the interview. At the ceremony, the permanent resident card is issued and the Certificate of Naturalization is received. From then on, the individual becomes a citizen of the United States and can enjoy the benefits that this entails.
Some of the benefits of being a U.S. citizen include the right to remain in the country as a U.S. citizen; eligibility to obtain a U.S. passport for international travel; the right to vote, hold elected office, and apply for certain federal and state jobs; avoiding permanent resident card renewal fees and saving up to $465 per permanent resident card renewal application; more options when applying to bring family members to the United States permanently; and the opportunity to obtain citizenship for your lawful permanent resident children under the age of 18.
