Citizenship Lawyer in Houston

Applying for U.S. Citizenship

Whether you are simply considering citizenship or earnestly desire to obtain status as a United States citizen, it is important that you understand the benefits and obligations this change in status would entail. First of all, it would allow you to take part in voting for state and federal elections and even eventually run for office in the Senate or House of Representatives. It would also allow you to take part in the justice system by serving on a jury and enable you to take part in any government benefits.

For travel purposes, you would be entitled to using your U.S. passport if you found yourself needing assistance from the U.S. government while overseas. Most importantly for a lot of individuals, it would allow you to keep your residency in America as well as allow you to petition for your family to join you. There are a myriad of benefits to obtaining citizenship status. The Law Office of Tony E. Parada can assist you in seeking out the best way for you to become a citizen as soon as possible.

Determining Eligibility

The process of becoming a citizen is referred to as naturalization and is typically available to those in possession of a green card for at least 5 years. It is necessary for you make certain that you meet all of the basic eligibility requirements for naturalization before you can even apply. These include showing that you are at least 18 years of age, are able to read, write and speak the English language, have been a green card holder for at least 5 years, and be a person of good moral character.

• You must then meet at least one of these other qualifications during the application process, including:
• Have been a permanent resident in the U.S. for at least the past 5 years;
• Spouse of a U.S. citizen and lived in the country as a permanent resident for at least 3 years;
• Qualify through service with the U.S. military; and
• Children may qualify if their parents are U.S. citizens, they were born outside of the country and currently do not live in the U.S. and meet all of the other basic requirements mentioned above.

Some of the aforementioned requirements may prevent you from obtaining citizenship, but do not give up hope. At our firm, we are qualified in all kinds of legal situations regarding immigration. There is a chance that the legal team at our office can represent you and achieve exemptions. Do not discount the power of a powerful and knowledgeable attorney. It may seem overwhelming to attempt on your own, but our legal representatives can navigate you through your options.

Houston Immigration Lawyers Helping with the Application Process

After you have determined if you are eligible, it is necessary that you fill out the Form N-400, Application for Naturalization. It will ask you questions about your basic information, occupation, place of residence, recent travels, criminal records, marital history, information about your children, and information about your general moral character. After that has been submitted, then you will be required to take a Naturalization Self Test to make sure that you understand the English language, U.S. history and civics. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services website offers a myriad of resources including study guides for these tests and pointers. If you pass this test and move forward, you may become a U.S. citizen and be entitled to many rights and benefits.

Avoid Confusion: Obtain Legal Guidance
It can be complicated and full of confusing paperwork when you are applying for citizenship, but a Houston immigration lawyer that is proficient in immigration law can be of great help to you. Not only can they determine if you are eligible, they can assist you in making appeals if you do not meet some of the requirements. At The Law Office of Tony E. Parada, there is no question that we are dedicated to allowing each individual to have a chance at naturalization. There is no case that is too big or too small for us to handle. We will work tirelessly to determine a plan that is beneficial to your situation and that will hopefully allow you to become a permanent U.S. resident and citizen. Do not hesitate to contact a Houston citizenship attorney to begin the legal process today!