Citizenship & Naturalization Attorney in New York, NY

Obtaining citizenship can significantly impact your career and family life. With something this important, do you have someone you can turn to for guidance and advocacy if complications arise? 

Our experienced and compassionate citizenship attorney in New York at Sebastian Simon Law Group is here to assist you with any legal matter relating to citizenship and the naturalization process. Our lawyer recognizes the struggles you may be going through and understands how essential securing citizenship may be for your family’s well-being and your own. 

You can trust our citizenship lawyer in New York and support team to do everything possible to ensure that you or someone you love receives the rights and benefits of being a U.S. citizen. Let us know how we can help you in a consultation. 

To start, our New York citizenship and naturalization lawyer can be reached at (332) 330-8387 or reach out online to request a consultation. Se habla Español.

Eligibility Requirements for U.S. Citizenship

Those who are eligible to become U.S. citizens include:

• Green card holders of five years
• Spouses of U.S. citizens
• Children of U.S. citizens 
• Active-duty members or veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces

Additionally, potential citizenship applicants must:

• Be over 18 at the time of application
• Demonstrate the ability to read, write, and speak in English (this varies by age)
• Have a “good moral character”

Navigating these eligibility requirements can be complex, and that's where we come in. Our team is well-versed in assessing individual circumstances to determine the best pathway to citizenship. For those who may face challenges meeting these requirements, we provide firm support and guidance through alternative legal avenues that may be available. It's crucial to have this support, as these criteria are stringently evaluated by USCIS, and minor errors in documentation or understanding can lead to significant delays.

The Naturalization Process

You can become a U.S. citizen through a process called naturalization. It begins with determining if you are already a U.S. citizen and whether you qualify for citizenship. Many individuals have citizenship through their parents or place of birth, so it is important to verify this information.

The other steps of the naturalization process are as follows:

1. Complete and sign Form N-400
2. Submit Form N-400 with passport-style photos
3. Attend a biometrics appointment
4. Attend the USCIS interview, at which you will answer questions and take a civics and language exam
5. Receive notice of the USCIS’s decision on your application
6. Take the Oath of Allegiance during your naturalization ceremony

Embarking on the naturalization process can be daunting, yet rewarding. Each step requires careful preparation and meticulous adherence to the guidelines set by USCIS. Our team provides comprehensive support at every stage, preparing detailed documentation, ensuring readiness for interviews, and offering practice tests to build confidence for the civics and language exam. With ample preparation, our naturalization attorney in New York aims to minimize the stress associated with this life-changing journey, giving you the best chance of success and smoothly transitioning to becoming a U.S. citizen.

What If Your Application for Citizenship Is Denied?

Your citizenship application may be denied if you submit it before you have met the residency requirement, if you failed the necessary exams, or if you have not continuously resided in the U.S. for the proper period, among other reasons. In these cases, you will remain a lawful permanent resident. However, the USCIS may revoke your green card if it discovers evidence of fraud or residency issues. 

Should the USCIS deny your citizenship application, you have appeal options. You can file a Form N-336 to request a hearing on the initial decision. Retaining an attorney is beneficial during this process, as they can advocate for your best interests and offer crucial advice. 

Facing a denied application can be disheartening, but it does not mean the end of your journey toward citizenship. Understanding the specific reasons for denial is critical, as it allows for a targeted response and the opportunity to address any shortcomings. We help clients comprehend the nuances of their denial letters, prepare for the appeal process, and emphasize correcting any mistakes or omissions in their application. We also guide applicants on strengthening their documentation and demonstrating compliance with USCIS requirements, enhancing their potential for a favorable outcome upon reapplication or appeal. If your citizenship application was denied, turn to a skilled naturalization attorney in New York at Sebastian Simon Law Group right away.

Understanding the New York City Immigration Court System

Navigating the immigration court system in New York can be intimidating, given its vast complexities and strict regulations. The system includes multiple immigration courts that handle various immigration matters, each having its jurisdiction over specific geographic areas. Understanding which court will handle your proceeding is essential for the timely and correct filing of paperwork. New York City's main immigration court, located at Federal Plaza, oversees the vast majority of hearings for New York-based immigrants.

Our firm helps clarify this often overwhelming process by accompanying clients to hearings, ensuring that all needed documentation is properly filed, and advocating tirelessly to safeguard our clients' rights. By meticulously preparing for each court appearance, we aim to present a compelling case for each client, with a focus on demonstrating eligibility for citizenship and successfully navigating appeals, should they be necessary. Armed with an intimate knowledge of local procedures and requirements, our attorney offers clients a strategic advantage in pursuing their path to citizenship.

For experienced guidance, turn to a skilled naturalization lawyer in New York. Contact us or call (332) 330-8387 to secure a consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Citizenship & Naturalization

What Is Naturalization and How Does It Differ from Citizenship?

Naturalization refers to the process by which a non-citizen in a country may acquire citizenship. It is often a complex legal process that requires individuals to demonstrate a connection to the country, such as residency. Naturalization involves meeting specific criteria outlined by the country's immigration system, such as residency duration and language proficiency. In contrast, citizenship is the status granted to an individual naturally born in the country or automatically through parental citizenship. The distinction here is critical, as it determines the path clients need to take and the type of application that should be filed based on personal circumstances.

How Long Does the Naturalization Process Typically Take?

The time required to complete the naturalization process can vary widely, generally taking between six months to a year in New York. This duration depends on several factors, including how quickly USCIS processes applications and the capacity of local field offices. Delays may be encountered due to incomplete documentation, security checks, or additional background screenings. To mitigate these delays, our firm ensures that applications are meticulously prepared and that clients remain informed about their application's status. By anticipating potential pitfalls, we aim to streamline the process, offering our clients peace of mind and efficient progress towards citizenship.

What Are the Common Reasons for Denial of Citizenship Applications?

The rejection of citizenship applications by USCIS can stem from several factors, such as discrepancies in the application, insufficient evidence of residency, failure to meet the 'good moral character' requirement, or incomplete submission of documentation. Understanding these reasons is essential for crafting a robust and complete application. Our firm works closely with clients to ensure that every detail is addressed, guiding applicants through meeting residency requirements, preparing required documents like tax returns, and emphasizing the importance of transparency in all stages of their application journey.

What Is the Role of a Citizenship Attorney During the Naturalization Process?

A citizenship attorney in New York can play a crucial role in navigating the intricacies of the naturalization process. From the initial assessment to determine eligibility, to completing forms and preparing for interviews, the lawyer provides comprehensive guidance. They help identify potential challenges, such as prior legal issues or discrepancies in documentation, and advise on steps to mitigate these risks. With a thorough understanding of immigration law, they can advocate on their clients' behalf, ensuring that applications reflect accurate and comprehensive personal history, ultimately fostering a successful pathway to citizenship.

Can Family Members of U.S. Citizens Apply for Accelerated Citizenship with a Naturalization Lawyer?

Certain family members of U.S. citizens, such as spouses, may benefit from a more expedited path to citizenship. For instance, spouses of U.S. citizens may apply for naturalization after three years of residency instead of the usual five. Understanding these exceptions can significantly impact the timing and approach to applying for citizenship. Our firm is adept at identifying these opportunities and assisting clients in capitalizing on them, ensuring quicker pathways to achieving their American dreams and reuniting families more swiftly through the benefits that citizenship provides.

Need a naturalization attorney in New York? Contact us online or call (332) 330-8387 for expert guidance on your path to U.S. citizenship!