How Do I Become a U.S. Citizen as an Immigrant Living in Miami?

For many immigrants living in the Miami-Dade region, obtaining United States citizenship is their ultimate goal. Citizenship confers a number of rights and responsibilities, including the ability to travel under a United States passport and vote in federal, state, and local elections. But how exactly does a Miami immigrant become a citizen?

A Brief Explanation of the Naturalization Process

Under the United States Constitution, anyone born in the United States (or a U.S. territory) is considered a citizen from birth. Similarly, any person born outside the United States to parents who are U.S. citizens also enjoy birthright citizenship. Anyone who is not a birthright citizen can still seek U.S. citizenship through a process called naturalization.

The specific requirements for naturalization can vary based on your particular immigration situation. But in general, you can apply for naturalization if you meet the following requirements:

• You are at least 18 years of age;
• You are a lawful permanent resident of the United States, i.e., you have a Green Card;
• You have been a continuous permanent resident of the United States for at least 5 years (if you are married to a U.S. citizen, this requirement may be reduced to 3 years);
• You have been physically present in the United States for at least 30 months (if you are married to a U.S. citizen, this requirement may be reduced to 18 months);
• You have lived for at least three months in the state where you claim residence.

If you meet the requirements, the first step towards seeking naturalization is to file an “Application for Naturalization,” also called a Form N-400, with United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This form includes a detailed questionnaire about your personal history. For example, you will need to disclose your marital history, criminal record, and information about your family and employment. If your answers are incomplete, USCIS can request additional information, which can delay the processing of your application.

After you file your Form N-400, together with any supporting documents and required filing fees, USCIS will require you to be fingerprinted and photographed for a criminal background check if you have not undergone this process before. Following this background check, a USCIS officer will schedule an interview to review your application in-person. As part of this process, you will also take an English and civics test, unless you receive an exemption for medical reasons.

The USCIS officer will then grant, deny, or continue your application. A continuation is common if the officer needs further information or you fail the English and/or civics test and need to take it again. If the officer denies your application, you have the right to file an administrative appeal. If the officer grants your application, however, you will then be scheduled to take the Oath of Allegiance, at which point you are a naturalized United States citizen.

Contact a Miami Citizenship & Naturalization Lawyer Today

The process of applying for U.S. citizenship can seem overwhelming. Fortunately, you do not have to navigate the process on your own. Our Miami citizenship and naturalization lawyer can help you navigate the system. Contact the Law Office Of Wilfredo O. Allen, Esq., today at 305-854-5955 to schedule a consultation.