Becoming a full-fledged citizen of the United States unlocks a lot of opportunities and can provide people with a sense of stability and belonging. Citizenship grants the right to vote, ensuring you can take part in shaping the nation’s future by choosing its leaders. It also opens the door to valuable government benefits, such as financial aid for higher education. Beyond these tangible rewards, citizenship eliminates the need to renew a green card, offering long-term security for individuals, families, and employers who are trying to plan ahead.
Our Orlando citizenship attorneys are committed to guiding immigrants through the naturalization process with compassion and knowledge. We’ve spent over 15 years serving clients across Orange County and Seminole County, and we provide personalized support every step of the way.
If you’re considering taking the step toward citizenship, contact us today by calling (407) 598-6035 or by reaching out with our online contact form.
U.S. Citizenship Requirements
The path toward citizenship begins with obtaining a green card. Most applicants are eligible after holding a green card for five years, though exceptions allow for a shorter waiting period for those married to U.S. citizens or serving in the military. When eligible, individuals can apply for citizenship using Form N-400.
Then, attaining U.S. citizenship requires meeting specific criteria that confirm an applicant’s readiness and eligibility for naturalization.
These include demonstrating English proficiency by passing a language test, which evaluates speaking, reading, and writing skills. Applicants must also succeed in a civics exam that covers fundamental knowledge of the U.S. Constitution, the structure of government, and key historical topics. Additionally, candidates must be at least 18 years old and show good moral character. This involves a thorough review of any criminal history or other conduct that might raise concerns.
Dealing with these requirements can feel overwhelming, especially for people unfamiliar with the process, but this is where our experienced lawyers can play an important role. We help applicants prepare for every stage of the naturalization process.
A key part of our role is ensuring that all necessary documentation is accurate, complete, and submitted on time. Missing or incorrect information can lead to processing delays or even denials. If an applicant has a criminal record, good legal counsel becomes even more important. In these cases, we help our clients present evidence of rehabilitation or good character and advocate for them.
Additionally, the test and interview can be intimidating. We’re there for our clients. That starts with preparing them for what to expect, and then being present in the interview itself to help protect their rights.
Becoming a U.S. citizen is both a privilege and a commitment to actively contributing to the nation’s prosperity and values. With citizenship come specific responsibilities, the most notable being the obligation to serve on a jury when summoned. Jury duty plays a vital role in upholding the justice system, allowing legal decisions to be made by a diverse and impartial group of citizens. It’s a unique duty that aims to reflect the democratic principles of fairness and equality. Understanding and fulfilling these, and other responsibilities is essential to being a good citizen.
The citizenship process can be particularly intricate for those facing unique or challenging circumstances, such as asylum seekers, refugees, or those with prior immigration violations. These cases often involve additional legal and procedural hurdles.
For asylum seekers and refugees, handling the transition from initial protected status to citizenship calls for careful coordination and compliance with specific timelines and documentation requirements. Our experienced attorneys ensure that necessary forms and evidence are properly assembled and submitted.
Additionally, those dealing with complicated family situations, medical issues, or language barriers often need special accommodations during the process. We know how to identify these needs as part of our advocacy for fair treatment from the relevant authorities.
Devoted to Your Citizenship Case
Our lawyers take a deep personal interest in our clients. We know that behind each case is a person, and often a family, with dreams and aspirations for their life in the United States. We’re here to help get you one step closer to those goals, and all of our extensive immigration law experience is leveraged on your behalf.
Call our Orlando office at (407) 598-6035 today. We work with both English and Spanish-speaking clients and offer virtual consultations for your convenience.
