Citizenship and Naturalization Attorneys in New York

U.S. citizens enjoy a wide range of rights, protections, and opportunities that temporary or permanent residents do not have access to.

Non-U.S. citizens resident in New York City or elsewhere in the country can achieve naturalization and U.S. citizen status if they meet the eligibility requirements and follow due process with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

This process becomes considerably easier with legal guidance from the experienced Citizenship and Naturalization Attorneys in New York at Urena & Associates. Our in-depth knowledge of the federal immigration system is backed by a long track record of successful outcomes in immigration cases in NYC.

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Naturalization vs Citizenship in the U.S.

U.S. citizenship means you are legally recognized as a member of the United States with full rights and responsibilities. This means you can:

• Vote in federal elections.
• Obtain a U.S. passport.
• Receive protection from deportation.
• Access certain government jobs and benefits.

The two ways to become a U.S. citizen are:

• By Birth (“Birthright Citizenship”)
  • If you’re born in the U.S. or its territories.
  • If you have a U.S. citizen parent or parents, even if born abroad.
• By Naturalization, whereby a non-citizen becomes a U.S. citizen after meeting specific legal requirements.

If you migrated to the U.S., naturalization is the path to full citizenship. However, before achieving that, you will need to meet strict eligibility requirements.

Who Is Eligible for Naturalization?

Applicants for naturalization must meet some basic U.S. citizenship eligibility requirements:

• At least 18 years old.
• Lawful permanent resident (Green Card holder) for at least five years (or three years if married to a U.S. citizen).
• Have continuous residence in the U.S.
• Have a physical presence in the U.S. for at least half of the five (or three) years.
• Demonstrate good moral character.
• Pass English tests and civics (U.S. history and government) tests.
• Pledge an Oath of Allegiance.

What Does the Naturalization Process Involve?

Before progressing too far with a naturalization application, it’s advisable to discuss your situation with a naturalization attorney who can help you determine eligibility and explain what documentation you need to start gathering.

If you have concerns about a criminal record, long absences from the U.S., past immigration violations, taxation issues or complex family situations, we’re here to help.

After determining eligibility, your citizenship lawyer will walk you through the following naturalization process:

Prepare and Submit an N-400 Application

The N-400 form is the Application for Naturalization. You can submit this online or by mail. Either way, you will need supporting documentation, such as a copy of your Green Card, tax records, marriage certificate, etc.

You will also need to pay the N-400 filing fee, which is currently $710 if applying online or $760 by mail (unless you are eligible for a fee waiver or discounted fee).

Attend a Biometrics Appointment

After submitting the N-400 application, you will receive a notice to attend a local Application Support Center (ASC), typically in Brooklyn, Manhattan or Queens.

At your appointment, the USCIS collects fingerprints, a photo, and your signature for a background check.

Naturalization Interview and Civics Test

You will then be scheduled to attend an in-person naturalization interview with the USCIS at one of NYC’s USCIS field offices: either Federal Plaza in Manhattan, 1827 Avenue J, Brooklyn, or 30-00 47th Avenue, Queens.