Citizenship & Naturalization in Houston

Houston Immigration Lawyer for Naturalization

United States citizenship can be granted in one of several ways. The first is by birth, when a person is born on U.S. soil, either within the country, on U.S. territory, or on a military base in another country. An individual can also obtain citizenship by being born to one or more parents who are U.S. citizens and by meeting certain requirements. Lastly, an immigrant to the U.S. can become a citizen through the naturalization process. This is a complex process with many important steps, making it necessary to consult a Houston immigration attorney as soon as possible.

How to Become a Naturalized United States Citizen

Immigrants to the United States do not have the same benefits and responsibilities as U.S. citizens. Anyone who immigrates to the U.S. and then decides they want to become a citizen must meet certain requirements and undergo an extensive process. An immigrant must obtain a green card and live in the U.S. as a lawful permanent resident for at least five years before they can pursue citizenship. If the immigrant is the spouse of a U.S. citizen, he or she must be a permanent resident for at least three years.

Once the residency requirements have been met, an immigrant may file Form N-400, Application for Naturalization with their local U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services (USCIS) lockbox facility. This application must be filed along with any necessary application fees. Once your application has been reviewed, you will be contacted with a location where you will be fingerprinted.

Immigration Interview & Testing

After your fingerprints have been taken, you must wait to hear from the USCIS about a date, time, and location for your immigration interview. This interview is mandatory. You will visit your local USCIS office and answer questions about yourself, your application and your background. You will also take two important tests: the English test and the civics test. By taking and passing these tests, you will prove that you can read and write English and that you are knowledgeable of the history and government of the United States.

Taking the Oath of Allegiance

Once you have received your case status and have been granted citizenship, you will receive a ceremony date. At this ceremony, you will return your green card and take a ceremonial Oath of Allegiance. You will then receive your Certificate of Naturalization and be granted all of the rights and responsibilities of a United States citizen.

Why hire our Houston immigration lawyer?

Throughout the naturalization process, you need the support and guidance of an immigration attorney who is knowledgeable and compassionate. Hira Law PLLC can help you prepare all necessary documentation and paperwork for your case and can help you make all of your appointments on time. Most importantly, we can help you prepare for the immigration interview and the subsequent tests. Your performance during the interview, English test, and civics test is vital to the success of your naturalization.

Attorney Randeep S. Hira is thoroughly dedicated to immigration law and wants nothing more than to help you achieve your immigration goals. He is a member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association and will provide honest counsel regarding your options. At Hira Law PLLC, we never make promises we cannot keep and will always give you a factual evaluation of your case. Contact us as soon as possible to get started on your case.