When you work with a naturalization lawyer in Phoenix, we try to make it as easy for you as possible to move through this process, deal with any obstacles that arise, and celebrate you as a new U.S. citizen.
You can count on our immigration attorney to walk you through naturalization, offering help and managing your case from start to finish. We will prepare and complete your paperwork, keep you up to date about your application’s status, and ensure you know what you need to do. The steps of this process include:
Filing the Naturalization Application
First is the N-400, Application for Naturalization form. This is the application for citizenship. We will also help you gather and submit the required documentation, which will include, at the very least, a copy of your Permanent Resident Card (Green Card). You may also need a copy of your marriage certificate, certain paperwork from the military, and other documents based on your application.
Going to Your Biometrics Appointment
Once USCIS receives the application and begins the evaluation process, it will send a letter indicating that you must report for a biometrics appointment. This is to get your fingerprints taken and handle a few other administrative duties.
In Phoenix, this is usually taken care of at the USCIS Application Support Center at 1330 South 16th Street. However, the letter will indicate where you need to report and when. If you have any questions about your appointment, check with our naturalization lawyers. We are familiar with the process and can usually answer questions you may have.
Interview and Testing
Following your biometrics appointment, you will receive another letter telling you when and where to go for your interview and testing. This may be six to 10 weeks after your biometrics appointment.
When you go for your interview and testing, you will:
- Answer questions about yourself, your history, and your application
- Take an English-language test
- Take a civics test
There are certain exceptions to the testing, and some people can take the civics test in their preferred language. Our attorney can go over these exceptions with you if you have concerns. In addition, we can help you study for your civics test. We aim to ensure that you have the best possible chance at a positive outcome. Therefore, we will help you throughout each step of the process.
Taking Your Oath
After your interview and testing, you will receive a decision. If approved, the only thing left is to take your Oath of Allegiance. The Oath of Allegiance ceremony formalizes your citizenship by having you recite a series of promises of loyalty to the United States. You will receive another letter that notifies you of when and where this ceremony will occur.
You will need to bring the form you received in the mail (Form N-445, Notice of Naturalization Oath Ceremony). Be sure to fill out the reverse side of the form as instructed. You will also need to bring your Green Card and any USCIS documents, including Reentry Permits and Refugee Travel Documents.
If you cannot attend the event, return the form to USCIS with a written explanation. They will send a new notice with an updated appointment date. Finally, USCIS indicates that you should wear clothing that “respects the dignity” of the ceremony. This request means you should avoid wearing casual dress such as shorts, flip flops, and jeans.
Don’t Be Discouraged by a Naturalization Denial
Unfortunately, US immigration laws are complex, and it is not unusual for USCIA to deny an application. Some reasons that USCIS may deny your Phoenix naturalization and citizenship application include:
- Criminal record
- Unpaid taxes
- Missed child support payments
- Poor English proficiency
- Failed Civic Test
- Failure to register for the Selective Service
- Fraudulent documentation for Green Card
- Failure to renew Green Card
- False information on the citizenship application
It is important to note that even if you did not purposely make the above errors, USCIS could still hold you accountable for any false or fraudulent information. Also, while denial of your naturalization and citizenship application does not necessarily mean that you will lose your Green Card, specific issues (such as fraudulent Green Card documentation) could compromise your legal resident status.
Our Lawyers Could Help If USCIS Denies Your Naturalization Application
Many people handle their naturalization and citizenship paperwork and appointments on their own. However, the process can cause stress and worry. If you run into issues or have questions about how your history could affect your application, we are here for you. We may be able to help you persuade USCIS to overlook your criminal record, a lengthy absence from the United States, or other potential issues.
If you believe any of the above conditions could affect your citizenship application, speak with an immigration lawyer about your situation right away. Depending on the circumstances of your denial, an immigrant naturalization lawyer can help you with the reapplication process or determine whether other options are better for your situation.
