In this video, Immigration Attorney Ellen Sullivan answers common questions about applying for U.S. citizenship. She explains how long the process takes—typically seven to nine months in Boston—and what to expect when preparing your case.
Ellen also covers key requirements, including passing the English test and addressing any past criminal or immigration violations. With expert legal guidance, you can navigate the process smoothly and confidently.
Ready to apply for citizenship? Watch the video to learn more, and contact us for a consultation!
Why should you apply for U.S. citizenship?
– Citizenship Immigration Lawyer in Cambridge, MA
As a US citizen, you have the right to vote in federal, state, and local elections. This means that you have a say in who represents you and the policies that affect your community.
US citizenship can open up job opportunities that are only available to US citizens, such as certain government positions or jobs that require security clearance.
US citizens are entitled to the full protection of the US Constitution, which includes the right to due process, equal protection under the law, and freedom of speech.
US citizens may be eligible for certain scholarships and grants that are only available to US citizens.
US citizens can travel freely abroad for extended periods of time and can also receive assistance from the US government when traveling abroad.
Becoming a US citizen allows you to fully participate in civic life, such as serving on juries, running for public office, and advocating for policies that are important to you.
As a US citizen, you may be able to sponsor family members for immigration to the United States, which can help reunite families that have been separated by borders.
How to apply for U.S. citizenship with a citizenship immigration lawyer?
To be eligible for U.S. citizenship, you must be at least 18 years old, have had a green card for at least 5 years (or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen), have continuously lived in the U.S. for at least 5 years (or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen), be able to read, write, and speak English, and be of good moral character.
USCIS will schedule you for an interview to review your application, test your English proficiency, and test your knowledge of U.S. civics.
Form N-400 is the official form used to apply for U.S. citizenship. Answer all questions carefully and correctly with the help of an attorney for citizenship.
After your interview, USCIS will notify you of its decision on your application.
You will need to gather supporting documents to prove your eligibility, such as your green card, your passport, immediately family’s identification documents, marriage and divorce certificates, relevant immigration documents, criminal documents, and IRS tax account transcripts, and any other relevant documentation.
Once USCIS decides that it will approve your application, you will receive a notice of an Oath Ceremony. Attend the Oath Ceremony with your green card (Form I-551). You will become a US Citizen that day when you take the Oath of Allegiance!
You will need to submit your completed application form, supporting documents, and the required filing fee to USCIS. You can file by mail or online at www.USCIS.gov.
USCIS may schedule you for a biometrics appointment, where your fingerprints, photograph, and signature will be taken. If USCIS has run biometrics for you in the past 10 years, you may not be scheduled for a biometrics meeting.
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Contact us today for a consultation, and let’s work together to achieve your citizenship goals.
