If you are an immigrant, you are most likely waiting for the day when you become an official United States citizen. Citizenship provides immigrants with the opportunities they need to live a happy, safe, and successful life. Please read on and reach out to our experienced Wisconsin immigration attorneys to learn more about naturalization and how U.S. citizenship can benefit you:
How do I know if I qualify for naturalization?
To qualify for naturalization, you must meet several qualifications. They are as follows:
- You must prove you are committed to the principles and ideals of the U.S. Constitution.
- You must be able to communicate, via reading, writing, and speaking basic English.
- You must have a satisfactory understanding of the United States government and history.
- You must take an oath of allegiance to the United States.
- You must be at least 18 years old, and a permanent resident for at least 5 years.
- You will have to prove continuous residence in the United States for at least 5 years before the date of filing Form N-400.
- Prove that you have been physically present in the United States for at least 30 months out of the 5 years before filing Form N-400.
- You must have lived for at least 3 months in the state or USCIS district where you apply.
- You must demonstrate that you are a person of good moral character.
What are some of the benefits and responsibilities of becoming a United States citizen?
When you are granted citizenship in the United States, you are given various rights and responsibilities. Rights are freedoms you can now enjoy as a United States citizen, while responsibilities are commitments you will make to our country to ensure it operates to its highest potential. Some of these rights and responsibilities are as follows:
- The right to vote: Generally, only U.S. citizens are allowed the right to vote in our elections.
- Travel with a U.S. passport
- Bring family members to the United States
- Obtain citizenship for children who are younger than 18 years old
- Apply for federal jobs, as most of these jobs will require citizenship
- Become an elected official. This is one of the highest honors and responsibilities a person can have, and it can only be obtained through U.S. citizenship.
- Keep your residency. Once you are a citizen, you cannot be removed.
- Qualify for certain federal grants and scholarships
- Obtain government benefits
- Serve on a jury. Jury service is one of the quintessential aspects of citizenship, and by serving, you help uphold the democratic process that our country so highly values.
Contact our experienced Wisconsin firm
John Sesini is an experienced immigration attorney with offices in Green Bay and Milwaukee Wisconsin. Our firm understands what is at stake when it comes to immigration law matters, which is why If you have any questions, you should not hesitate to contact the Sesini Law Group, S.C. and schedule your initial consultation with our firm today.