Helping Immigrants Become U.S. Citizens
If your American Dream includes achieving citizenship, Lefebvre Law Firm, PLLC, can help you reach that goal. In her 20 years of practice in U.S. immigration law, attorney Liset Lefebvre has proudly helped many immigrants become naturalized citizens.
What Is The Path To Citizenship?
Naturalization is the most common path for foreign-born individuals to attain citizenship. Under Section 316 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), immigrants must meet these requirements:
- Physical presence in the United States – 2.5 years or 1.5 years if you are married to a U.S. citizen
- Continuous residence in the United States for the last 5 years or 3 if you are married to a U.S citizen
- Ability to read, write and speak English unless you qualify for an exemption:
– Medical or physical disability exemption
– 50/20 Rule
– 55/15 Rule - Basic understanding of U.S. history and government and U.S. Constitution principles
- Maintain good moral character for the 5-year period preceding the filing of the application
– In 2019, USCIS updated their policy manual concerning unlawful acts during the applicable statutory period that reflect adversely on moral character and may prevent an applicant from meeting the good moral character requirement.
Derived citizenship is available to certain individuals born outside the United States, through a family member who is a U.S. citizen. If your parent or grandparent was (1) born in the United States or (2) became a naturalized U.S. citizen while you were under the age of 18, you may be eligible to derive U.S. citizenship.
Frequently Asked Questions
When our clients are pursuing U.S. citizenship through naturalization, they often have many questions about the process. As we guide you through this important journey, we are here to answer your questions and address any concerns you may have. Some of the most common questions we receive from our clients include:
Citizenship & Naturalization FAQs for Texas
What are the main steps involved in the naturalization process in Texas?
Applicants must submit Form N-400, provide required documentation and biometrics, and attend an interview at a USCIS office in Texas. They’ll also need to pass the English and civics exams unless exempt. If approved, the applicant attends a naturalization ceremony and takes the Oath of Allegiance.
How long does the naturalization process take in Texas?
Processing times for citizenship applications in Texas can vary based on the local USCIS office and case specifics. On average, applicants can expect the process to take 10 to 15 months from filing to oath ceremony. Factors affecting timelines include background checks, interview schedules, and case complexity.
Does a criminal record in Texas affect eligibility for U.S. citizenship?
Certain criminal convictions can impact eligibility for U.S. citizenship by affecting the good moral character requirement. Crimes such as aggravated felonies, fraud, or controlled substance violations can make applicants inadmissible. However, not all offenses result in ineligibility, and legal waivers may be possible. It’s essential to have an experienced Texas immigration attorney review any criminal history before applying.
Are You Ready To Apply For Citizenship?
Liset Lefebvre is certified as a specialist in Immigration and Nationality Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. She can help you with the citizenship application and prepare you for your citizenship test and interview. Mrs. Lefebvre can also address any barriers such as criminal convictions that might prevent you from qualifying for naturalization.
Call the firm at 972-665-9793 to schedule a consultation, or use the email form.