Brownsville Naturalization Lawyer

Making U.S. Citizenship a Reality

Naturalization is the legal process through which a non-U.S. citizen voluntarily becomes an American citizen. It represents a critical and final step in the immigration journey, allowing individuals to fully participate in the civic life of the United States. The benefits of citizenship are numerous, from gaining the right to vote, eligibility for federal jobs, freedom to travel in and out of the U.S. with a passport, protection from deportation, automatic citizenship for children, and more.

Navigating the path to U.S. citizenship can be complex and overwhelming, involving intricate laws and detailed documentation. At The Law Office of Mauricio Garcia, our experienced immigration lawyer can guide you through each step of the naturalization process, helping to avoid common pitfalls and ensuring your application has the best chance of success.

Get guidance from our Brownsville naturalization attorney in a free initial consultation. Book an appointment online or call (956) 395-3314. Hablamos español.

Who Can Apply for Naturalization?

Eligibility for naturalization generally includes legal permanent residency (holding a green card) for at least five years. For the spouses of U.S. citizens, the permanent residency requirement is reduced to three years. Naturalization can also be pursued through military service and for children of U.S. citizens. 

Applicants must be at least 18 years old, have continuous residence and physical presence in the U.S., and show good moral character and an understanding of the English language, as well as U.S. history and government.

The Naturalization Process

The process for naturalization includes several steps:

• Application: Complete and submit Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, with all required documentation.
• Biometrics appointment: Attend a biometrics appointment for fingerprinting and photographing.
• Interview: Participate in an interview with a USCIS officer, including a test on English and U.S. history and government.
• Decision: If approved, receive a decision on your Form N-400.
• Oath of allegiance: Take the oath to the United States in a formal naturalization ceremony.

Applicants often encounter hurdles such as lengthy processing times, complex legal documentation, and the English and civics tests. The processing times for naturalization applications can vary greatly but typically range from eight to 12 months, though delays are common. 

Understanding and completing the required legal paperwork can be daunting, especially for those with limited English proficiency. The English and civics tests, designed to assess language skills and knowledge of U.S. history and government, can pose significant challenges for many applicants.