Vickerstaff Law Office

Call For An Initial Consultation

Local: 502-442-2039 Toll-Free: 888-832-2944
Vickerstaff Law Office

Call For An Initial Consultation

Local: 502-442-2039
Toll-Free: 888-832-2944

Louisville, Kentucky, Immigration Lawyer

Louisville, Kentucky, Immigration Lawyer

Do you have questions about beginning the naturalization process?

Living in the United States may have been a long-time goal for you. Though you may have achieved that goal some time ago and became a permanent resident, you could have found yourself wanting to take another step and become a United States citizen. Many people have this goal, but because the naturalization process can seem daunting, numerous individuals may also delay pursuing this achievement.

If you feel uncertain about beginning the naturalization process, you are not alone. Luckily, you can find out more information on the process itself and obtain legal assistance throughout the process if you desire. The following basic information regarding naturalization may help you feel more at ease when considering beginning this lengthy process.

Eligibility

Only certain individuals qualify to apply for naturalization. You may think that any immigrant should have the opportunity to become a citizen if he or she chooses, but these requirements allow immigration services to make sure only serious candidates apply. The eligibility requirements include:

  • Applicant must be at least 18 years old.
  • Applicant must hold legal permanent residency status.
  • Applicant must have resided and had a physical presence in the U.S. for at least five years.
  • Applicant must have good moral character.

Certain exceptions to the requirement exist, and in order to determine your eligibility status, you may wish to closely assess your circumstances with a knowledgeable professional.

Application process

Once you have determined your eligibility, you may then move forward with the application process. You will need to complete the Application for Naturalization form, obtain two approved photographs, gather applicable paperwork and send in all of your information.

The biggest step in your naturalization process involves going through an interview and taking a civics tests. This part of the process may seem particularly intimidating, but as long as you take the time to prepare, answer all questions truthfully and to the best of your knowledge, and remain calm, you do not have to feel distressed regarding these steps.

Gaining assistance

Because the naturalization process has many details that need attending to and can prove complicated to go through, having the right information regarding the process can be helpful. Utilizing local Kentucky legal resources could help you ensure that the knowledge you obtain is applicable and reliable. Additionally, in order to gain personal assistance throughout the process, you may wish to consider enlisting the help of an attorney.