Chicago Naturalization Lawyer
Helping Immigrants Become Citizens of the United States
Becoming an American citizen is a dream of many. Unfortunately, the process is often complicated. If you’re not a citizen by birth, you’ll need to fill out an application for naturalization. However, it’s important to realize that not everyone who applies will be granted citizenship. There are stringent requirements, and even those who meet them may encounter difficulties. This is why many potential citizens choose to work with a Chicago naturalization lawyer.
At Gilliam Law, our team of immigration law professionals is committed to securing favorable outcomes for our clients. We understand the eligibility requirements for citizenship, but more importantly, we understand the best way to apply for this status on behalf of our clients. And even if you’re worried you may not qualify for naturalization, our Chicago law firm works exclusively in immigration law. This means we may be able to identify alternate options for legal residency and citizenship.
Contact Gilliam Law today for a Free Case Evaluation.
Do You Need a Lawyer for the Naturalization Process?
The internet has simplified many things in recent years, and this includes the immigration process. In fact, you can review the requirements for naturalization and even fill out the Form N-400 application right from your own home. You may even know individuals who have gotten a Certificate of Naturalization without legal assistance. The truth is that many people are able to successfully navigate this complex process on their own. Unfortunately, there are also many others who fail.
The simple fact is that the naturalization process looks different for everyone. While it may be simple and straightforward for one individual, another person could be denied without fully understanding why. This is why it’s so important to seek legal assistance with the naturalization application and process. The outcome of this journey can affect your entire life moving forward, so why risk making common mistakes or encountering hurdles that you’re unsure how to overcome?
United States citizenship is a special thing. Let the legal team at Gilliam Law ensure you’re taking the right steps. Our Chicago naturalization lawyer is here to help.
What Are the Benefits of Gaining U.S. Citizenship?
Some people question whether becoming an American citizen is worth the effort. This is especially prevalent among individuals who have already secured a green card and legal residency status. However, it’s important to remember that U.S. citizens enjoy a variety of benefits that lawful permanent residents (LPRs) do not have. For instance, only naturalized citizens can vote in local, state, and federal elections. Additionally, only citizens will qualify for certain government jobs and school scholarships.
Once naturalized, a person may even be eligible to hold elected office in the country. Lawful permanent residents also frequently find that they’re not eligible for certain public assistance programs that naturalized citizens have access to. The most important benefit for some, however, is the ability to help other family members and loved ones immigrate to the United States. While LPRs can petition for immigration visas, they have a limited ability to do so relative to their naturalized counterparts.
Once a person has acquired citizenship through naturalization, the advantages they have are limitless. Let our law firm review your case — Case Consult of charge — and help you understand your options.
Who Is Eligible for Naturalization?
Applying for citizenship is complicated, but before you start studying for the naturalization test, it’s important to understand who is eligible to become a citizen. In order to qualify, an applicant must be at least 18 years old at the time of their application. They must also be able to speak, read, and write English. Importantly, they need to demonstrate good moral character. For instance, having a criminal record could interfere with the demonstration of good character.
Unfortunately, this is not where the requirements end. In addition to meeting these eligibility requirements, you must also be a green card holder for five years, married to a U.S. citizen, be the child of an American citizen, or be an active duty or veteran service member. There are additional requirements based on which of these categories you fall under. For instance, the husband or wife of a U.S. citizen will still need to be in the country a minimum of three years for naturalization.
Unfortunately, this area of law is too complex to fully explain online. Any immigration officer can attest to this fact — and the fact that all immigration cases are unique. That’s why you should schedule a Free Case Evaluation with a Chicago naturalization attorney at Gilliam Law. Let us review your case free of charge, determine your eligibility, and help you decide how to move forward on the path to citizenship.
What Is the Process of Naturalization?
Navigate the Naturalization Process With Confidence
If you’re eligible for naturalization, you’ll need to follow a detailed series of steps to become a U.S. citizen:
Complete Form N-400:
Begin the naturalization process by filling out Form N-400, the Application for Naturalization. Ensure you include all required information and pay the applicable fees when submitting your application.
Gather Supporting Documents:
Collect necessary documentation, such as proof of lawful permanent residency, evidence of time spent in the U.S., and other required materials based on your individual circumstances.
Attend a Biometrics Appointment:
Prepare for the Interview:
Take the Oath of Allegiance:
If your application is approved, you will receive a notice to attend an Oath of Allegiance ceremony. Once you take this oath, you officially become a naturalized U.S. citizen.
Navigating the naturalization process can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. At the Law Offices of Solomon D. Gilliam, P.C., we are here to guide you at every stage. Contact us today to take the next step in your journey toward citizenship.
How We Can Assist
At the Law Offices of Solomon D. Gilliam, P.C., we simplify the naturalization process by guiding clients through each step with clarity and precision. Our team assists with preparing and filing applications, ensuring documents meet citizenship and immigration services requirements, and addressing potential obstacles in the immigration process. We provide personalized attention to help clients navigate complex legal procedures and move confidently toward their goal of becoming U.S. citizens.
Contact Our Chicago Naturalization Lawyer Today
Becoming a U.S. citizen is a simple endeavor for some people. For most individuals, they’re simply born into it. Even those born overseas have American citizenship if at least one parent is naturalized prior to their child turning 18. Unfortunately, it’s not this easy for everyone.
You could have spent years in the United States doing everything right, and this still doesn’t guarantee citizenship. However, it is possible to increase your odds of naturalization by working with a legal professional.
At Gilliam Law, we’re here to help you with all your immigration needs. Whether you have a green card and are seeking citizenship or merely want to establish yourself as a lawful permanent resident, our legal team has the experience to assist. Even if the traditional path to citizenship won’t work for you, we can discuss your options and what your next move should be.
Contact us today at (866) 511-3422 to schedule your Free Case Evaluation. Our Chicago naturalization lawyer is here to help.
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