U.S. CITIZENSHIP
How to obtain the United States citizenship and an American passport
The USA is a nation that identifies itself and connects through the values of freedom, justice and equality that its citizens share. Many of these citizens are immigrants who helped to shape the country with their rich contributions. Naturalized citizens are a fundamental part of the U.S. and the decision to become a U.S. citizen offers many equally important benefits and responsibilities.
By becoming a citizen, you are reaffirming your commitment and loyalty to the country that offers the best professional and personal opportunities in the world.
There are different ways to obtain the American citizenship:
- Being the son of an American citizen;
- Being a legal permanent resident for 5 years;
- Being married to an American citizen;
- Serve in the US Armed Forces;
Citizenship through American parents
There are two ways to obtain citizenship through American citizen parents: at birth and after birth, but before the age of 18. Congress enacted laws that determine how citizenship is passed on by an American citizen parent (or parents) to children born outside the United States. The law in force at the time of birth determines whether someone born outside of the United States, the child of a father (or parents), an American citizen, is an American citizen at birth. In general, these laws require that at least one parent be an American citizen and that the American citizen parent has lived in the United States for a period of time.
Citizenship for legal permanent residents for 5 years
This is the most common way for a foreigner to become an American citizen. The applicant must demonstrate that he has been a permanent resident legally admitted to the United States for at least five years.
Citizenship through marriage to an American citizen
To be eligible for naturalization, you must be at least 18 years old, be a permanent resident legally admitted to the United States for at least three years, and have lived in conjugal union with your American spouse for the three years immediately preceding the date on which you filed your claim.
Citizenship through military servisse
If you are serving or have served in the U.S. armed forces, you may be eligible to apply for naturalization under the special provisions of the Immigration and Nationality Act.
What is the process like to become an American citizen?
- After determining your eligibility, file with USCIS Form N-400, Naturalization Request, duly completed and signed.
- The next step is scheduling your biometrics appointment, as the USCIS requires fingerprints from all candidates for criminal background checks.
- Your interview to complete the naturalization process will be scheduled. On the day of your interview, you will take both the English and civics tests. At uscis.gov/citizenship you will find the necessary material to prepare and study for the exam.
- Upon your approval, you must take the Oath of Allegiance, when you receive your Certificate of Naturalization.
- It currently takes about 6 months to a year to obtain US citizenship from the moment you apply.
To learn more about the US citizenship application process, visit the official page of the US Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS): https://www.uscis.gov/citizenship
What are the benefits of the American citizenship?
- Voting rights: only citizens can vote in federal elections and in most states.
- Serve on a jury: only citizens can serve on a federal jury and in most states.
- Travel with an American passport and rely on assistance from the US government abroad, if necessary.
- Bringing family members to the USA: US citizens generally have priority when making a petition to bring family members permanently to the USA.
- Obtain citizenship for children under 18: children of an American citizen born abroad are automatically American citizens.
- Federal jobs: there are jobs in government agencies for citizens only.
- Possibility of being elected: only citizens can run for federal office (US Senate or House of Representatives) and most state and local offices.
- Residence: the right of an American citizen to remain in the United States cannot be withdrawn.
- Scholarships: financial aid grants, such as college scholarships, are available to US citizens only.
- Government benefits: some of these are available to US citizens only.
DO YOU QUALIFY TO BECOME A US CITIZEN AND GET AN AMERICAN PASSPORT?
THEN CONTACT AG!
AG Immigration is one of the leading immigration consultancy and law firms in the United States. Our mission is to make your American dream come true, and for that we have a highly qualified team of renowned lawyers and professionals with extensive knowledge of the complex immigration laws of the USA.
AG is present in several cities: Las Vegas, Los Angeles, New York, Orlando, Tampa and Miami, in addition to our representatives in Brazil. And to further expand our operational capacity, we have an online call center. We are ready to assist you regardless of where you are, with integrity, responsibility and commitment.
Get in touch with AG’s Immigration team to realize your dream of becoming an American citizen. At AG, your dream is our goal!