Citizenship
Florida Naturalization and Citizenship Attorney
Once an individual has become a lawful permanent resident ("green card" holder), U.S. citizenship is the final step in the immigration process. This is known as naturalization. As with all immigration processes, there are certain restrictions and requirements which apply, including:
- Individuals are eligible only after five years of permanent residency or three years if they obtained their residency through marriage to a U.S. citizen and are still married
- The individual must be at least 18 years of age and must be a person of good moral character during the three or five year time period,*
- The applicant must have been physically present in the U.S. more than 50 percent of the time during the previous five or three years, depending on status, and must have resided in the same immigration district for at least 90 days
- The applicant must reside within the U.S. during the entire process, from application to approval
*Because of the moral character requirement, any criminal charges during the three to five year time frame can pose serious obstacles to naturalization and citizenship. Although traffic tickets and some arrests on minor charges may not cause problems, any serious charges or international criminal history can effectively bar an individual from citizenship.
Naturalization applicants need to prove all of the above criteria, as well as demonstrate knowledge of U.S. civics and history, and a command of the English language. Exceptions to some of the requirements exist for select naturalization applicants and applicants over a certain age.
The efficient guidance of a dedicated immigration and naturalization attorney can help to ensure a successful application granting to the applicant all the rights and responsibilities of U.S. citizenship.
Banks Law Office • Employment Sponsored Green Cards Attorney
Call 727-536-4400 to schedule a free consultation.
For experienced guidance at every stage of the process, contact Banks Law Office today to schedule a free initial consultation with a knowledgeable experienced naturalization and citizenship lawyer.
Contact Banks Law Office in Clearwater, Florida, today for a free consultation. Office hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. The firm offers free initial consultations and competitive flat rates. Visa, American Express, MasterCard and Discover are accepted for your convenience.
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Banks Law Office, P.A.
13575 58th Street North
Suite 144
Clearwater, FL 33760-3746
Phone: 727-536-4400 • E-mail • Fax: 727-536-4401• Map & Directions
