Citizenship and Naturalization

Atlanta Citizenship Immigration Attorneys

Citizenship and Naturalization

Citizenship refers to something that happens as an automatic process of law, a right, with no forms required.

Generally, a person born inside the United States (and some of its possessions), is a U.S. citizen by law. There are a few exceptions to this, such as children of diplomats who would prefer to claim their parents’ citizenship.

If you are interested in becoming a U.S. citizen, contact Hope Immigration to schedule a consultation with our immigration lawyers in Marietta.

Derivation

Derivation (or acquisition) of U.S. citizenship occurs when a person born outside the United States to a U.S. citizen parent or parents can establish a claim of U.S. citizenship depending on the year they were born, their legal status at the time the claim is made, their parents’ previous residency in the United States, and other requirements.

Sometimes a person will be a U.S. citizen and not even know it. Being able to derive citizenship depends on a number of factors, such as which parent was a U.S. citizen, where the parent lived, and whether or not the child was born in or out of wedlock.

Naturalization

If you do not qualify for the automatic right to be a U.S. citizen, there is an alternative method to acquire citizenship called Naturalization. Naturalization is the legal term for becoming a citizen of the United States.

You may qualify for Naturalization if:

  • You have been a permanent resident for at least five years and meet all other eligibility requirements;
  • You have been a permanent resident for three years or more and meet all eligibility requirements to file as the current or battered spouse of a U.S. citizen;
  • You have qualifying service in the U.S. Armed Forces and meet all other eligibility requirements.
  • Your child may qualify for naturalization if you are a U.S. citizen, the child was born outside the U.S., the child is currently residing outside the U.S., and all other eligibility requirements are met.

The Naturalization Process:

  • You will be required to pass English and Civics exams.
    • English is measured at approximately a fourth-grade level.
    • The English exam consists of speaking, reading, and writing.
  • Questions and answers to the English and Civics Exams can be found on the USCIS website.

For more information on citizenship and naturalization, contact Hope Immigration today at (678) 713-4255.