The path to United States citizenship can prove difficult, particularly if you try to go it alone. Between the paperwork that requires filling out to interviews and the education you’ll need, it’s often beneficial to bring on a naturalization lawyer to fight on your behalf. They understand the ins and outs of the naturalization process, and if you choose to hire one on your path to citizenship, you can expect to enjoy numerous benefits.
How the naturalization process works.
While the United States doesn’t have one single path to citizenship, any non-resident who wants to become naturalized in the states can expect to go through largely the same process. It starts by determining whether or not you have eligibility to become a U.S. citizen. If you do qualify, you have to prepare and submit Form N-400 and pay a set amount of fees.
If applicable, you’ll also need to submit your biometrics and then complete an interview. It’s at this point that you’ll learn about the decision from the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). If you’ve been accepted, you’ll go through a few more steps, including taking the Oath of Allegiance to the United States.
This is a basic breakdown of the process to become a citizen, but your naturalization lawyer can provide more insights. If you’d like additional resources, you can search the 10 steps to naturalization as well as the standard exceptions and accommodations to that process.
Benefits of hiring a naturalization lawyer.
Avoid time-consuming mistakes.
Becoming a U.S. citizen doesn’t happen easily, and without a naturalization lawyer by your side, it’s not uncommon for mistakes to occur. Something as simple as filling out a form incorrectly can prolong the process and end up costing you more money than you should spend. An expert lawyer, however, knows the entire process intrinsically. They can ensure everything is filled out correctly and on time, so you can work through the process quickly and with as minimal stress as possible.
Understand all your options.
The process outlined above covers the most common path to naturalization, but that doesn’t mean it’s the only option. As presented in the exceptions and accommodations site, you may qualify for different paths than other people you know who have gone through the process. Your naturalization lawyer knows this, and they’ll explore every option available to help you become a citizen. That way, you fully understand what the best path forward is and can avoid wasting time and money on less strategic methods.
Protect your rights.
Even though you haven’t become a fully naturalized citizen just yet, that doesn’t mean you’re not entitled to certain rights. However, standing up for yourself and fighting for those rights can seem overwhelming to individuals going through the naturalization process. It’s another reason you should have a lawyer by your side. Not only do they understand the rights you’re afforded, but they’ll do everything they can to protect those rights and ensure you’re treated fairly and with the respect you deserve.
You don’t have to go through this process alone.
Here at Tampa Immigration Law Center, we understand the unique challenges and frustrations non-residents face when trying to become a U.S. citizen. That’s why we’ve made it our mission to provide honest, trustworthy legal advice to immigrants who want to become naturalized citizens. We work with our clients to make sure they understand the process and always know what to expect.
If you’re getting ready to apply for citizenship, the Tampa Immigration Law Center is here to provide guidance, advice, and legal assistance. Learn more about our naturalization services online, or schedule a call and let us show you how we can help.