Recently, USCIS has updated the USCIS Policy Manual to clarify the statute behind the continuity of residence that allows immigrants to become naturalized U.S. citizens. The continuity of residence is a crucial aspect of citizenship, which is why if you are someone who has been absent from the United States for more than 6 months during your naturalization period, this update most likely applies to you. Please read on and reach out to our experienced Wisconsin immigration attorneys to learn more about how we can help you through the process. Here are some of the questions you may have:
What does the update to the USCIS Policy Manual contain?
The update states that all applicants who have left the United States for more than 6 months, though less than a year will have to “overcome the presumption that they have broken the continuity of their residence in the United States.” Additionally, the update also states that all applicants who break the continuity of residence in the U.S. must begin a new period of continuous residence. If you are someone who has broken the continuity of residence needed for naturalization, you may need the services of an immigration attorney who can fight for your right to naturalization.
How do I know if I qualify for naturalization in the United States?
There are several ways in which you may qualify for naturalization. For example, if you have been a permanent resident for at least 5 years and have met various other criteria, you will most likely qualify for naturalization. Additionally, those who have served in the U.S. armed forces who meet all other qualifying criteria may be eligible for naturalization. In other cases, certain children qualify for naturalization if they were born to a U.S. citizen outside of the United States. Finally, if you have been a permanent resident in the United States for three years and are the spouse of a United States citizen, you will also generally qualify for naturalization.
If you are someone who believes you qualify for naturalization in the United States, feel free to reach out to our knowledgeable immigration attorneys to learn more. We are here to help you through every step of the naturalization process–all you have to do is ask.
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.