FAQ: How do I change my name on the N-400 Application for Naturalization?
An applicant for Naturalization can request to change their name with their N-400 Naturalization application. What do you need to do in order to change your name on your U.S. citizenship application? Find out in our FAQ.
FAQ: How do I change my name with my N-400 Naturalization/Citizenship application?
What is Naturalization?
Naturalization is the process by which a lawful permanent resident (Green Card Holder) applies for and is granted U.S. citizenship. U.S. citizenship is a legal status that offers many benefits and responsibilities, including the ability to vote in U.S. federal elections, serve on a jury, travel with a U.S. passport, and bring family members to the United States. Importantly, once obtained, U.S. citizenship cannot be abandoned or lost by spending extended periods of time outside of the United States (as is the case with permanent residence). In order to naturalize, generally speaking you need to wait at least 4 years and 9 months after obtaining lawful permanent residence before you can submit your N-400 application for naturalization (citizenship).
Can I naturalize after three years of permanent residence based on marriage to my U.S. citizen spouse?
If you have received your permanent residence through marriage, you may not have to wait the standard 5 years of permanent residency to apply for citizenship. In this case, you may apply to naturalize (obtain U.S. citizenship) in three years, if you continue living in marital union with your U.S. citizen spouse and meet the other requirements for naturalization.
10 Steps to a Successful Marriage-Based Green Card Application
A marriage-based green card grants permanent residency to the spouse of a U.S. citizen or green card holder allowing them to live and work in the United States. What are the steps in the green card process?
FAQ: What is Naturalization? What are the requirements for U.S. citizenship?
Naturalization is the process by which a lawful permanent resident (Green Card Holder) applies for and is granted U.S. citizenship. What is the process to naturalize and what are the documentary requirements?
Success Stories: 10-Year Green Card Granted for Conditional Resident from the Philippines.
A conditional permanent resident receives a green card valid for 2 years. In order to remain a permanent resident, a conditional permanent resident must file a petition to remove the condition during the 90 days before the card expires. When the petition is approved, the applicant becomes a permanent resident and receives a 10-year green card.
Success Stories: Spousal Green Cards Approval for Haitian National previously on TPS
We are pleased to share that we recently secured lawful permanent residence (a green card) for our client, a Haitian national who previously held Temporary Protected Status (TPS) through his U.S. citizen wife. TPS provides temporary legal status, protection from deportation, work authorization, and may include advance parole for international travel.
Top 10 FAQ on Marriage-Based Green Card Applications
What documents do I need to submit with my marriagebased green card petition? What questions will I be asked during the green card interview? How much do I need to make in order to file a green card petition for my spouse? I received a green card through marriage, when can I apply for citizenship? My spouse and I have divorced. Can I still continue with the green card process? Find out the answer to these and other frequently asked questions regarding marriage-based green card applications in our FAQ blog post.
Form I-751: Removal of Temporary Conditions for 2-year Conditional Green Card (Conditional Residence)
A conditional permanent resident receives a green card valid for 2 years. In order to remain a permanent resident, a conditional permanent resident must file a petition to remove the condition during the 90 days before the card expires. The conditional card cannot be renewed. The conditions must be removed or you will lose your permanent resident status.
FAQ: What is a second marriage-based green card interview called a Stokes Interview?
A Stokes interview is very different from a regular first interview. It is a second green card interview for marriage-based applicants where the petitioner and beneficiary are interviewed separately to determine whether they have a bonafide marriage.
What happens after I-130 approval? What is consular processing?
Form I-130 is used by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (LPR/green card holder) to apply for permanent residency for a qualifying relative who wishes to live and work in the United States and get a Permanent Resident Card (also called a Green Card). Read our FAQ discussing what happens next after the I-130 is approved for those with relatives abroad, the document review/gathering at the National Visa Center (NVC) and the consulate interview.
How can I prove my good moral character for naturalization? What can prevent a finding of good moral character?
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services recently expanded its policy guidance regarding unlawful acts that may prevent an applicant from meeting the good moral character (GMC) requirement for naturalization. What acts could prevent a finding of good moral character?
What happens at a naturalization interview? What should I expect at my citizenship interview appointment?
The Naturalization Interview & Testing is one of the steps necessary to complete the Naturalization process in the United States. It is not merely a formality, but a very important step in the path towards becoming a U.S. Citizen.
What are required documents for an O-1 Extraordinary Ability Petition?
The O-1 nonimmigrant visa is for an individual who possesses extraordinary ability in the sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics, or who has a demonstrated record of extraordinary achievement in the motion picture or television industry and has been recognized nationally or internationally for those achievements. What are some required documentation for an O-1 extraordinary ability visa application?
FAQ: What is an affidavit of support? What are the obligations of an immigrant sponsor?
Form I-864, Affidavit of Support (https://www.uscis.gov/i-864), is a contract an individual signs agreeing to use their financial resources to support the intending immigrant named on the affidavit. Who can be a sponsor? What are their obligations? Find out in our FAQ.
FAQ: What is a biometrics appointment? What can I expect during a biometrics appointment?
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will schedule a biometrics appointment after you file an application, petition or request. The biometrics you provide during your appointment allow USCIS to confirm your identity and run required background and security checks. Find out what to expect on our FAQ.
FAQS: Can I work for multiple employers on O-1 Extraordinary Ability Visa?
What is the O-1 extraordinary Ability Visa?
The O-1 nonimmigrant visa is for individuals who possess extraordinary ability in the sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics, or who has a demonstrated record of extraordinary achievement in the motion picture or television industry and has been recognized nationally or internationally for those achievements.
FAQ: Who can be a petitioner for an O-1 Visa?
Who can be my petitioner for an O-1 extraordinary ability visa? There are three different types of petitioners for an O-1 visa: employer, agent or employer-agent. Learn about the different options and find one that’s right for your specific case.
What documents are required when proving a bonafide marriage?
U.S. immigration law allows a U.S. citizen or permanent resident (green card holder) to file an immigrant petition to bring their spouse to live in the United States as a permanent resident. Many of our clients ask what type of documentation they need to show the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to prove their family relationship. Here are our recommendations.
Didn’t get picked in the Lottery? Here are 5 alternatives to the H-1B Work Visa
The H-1B program allows employers to hire nonimmigrant aliens as workers in specialty occupations or as fashion models of distinguished merit and ability. They must meet certain requirements, such as having a bachelor’s degree and special training. There are a limited number of H-1B visas available each year, typically 65,000 (regular cap) and 20,000 (advance degree). With the tremendous demand to participate in the program, you must be chosen in an H-1B visa lottery to be eligible to apply. Find out other options if you have not been selected in the H-1B lottery in our blog post.