United States Citizenship
Becoming a Naturalized U.S. Citizen
A Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR), which is often referred to informally as a green card holder, is eligible to apply for citizenship to the United States if the following qualifications are met:
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Lawful Permanent Resident has resided continuously in the United States 5 or more years immediately prior to filing (brief absences are permitted);
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Lawful Permanent Resident has maintained physical presence in the United States for at least 30 months out of the previous five years (some exceptions apply); and
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Lawful Permanent Resident has resided in the same State (or District) for three months or longer.
Additional Considerations
Character
In addition to the qualifications set forth above, every person seeking United States citizenship must demonstrate that he/she is a person of good moral character and has been for 5 years prior to filing. Individuals that have been convicted of murder or certain aggravated felonies are barred from applying for citizenship (this is a complex area and you should consult an immigration attorney at the Raza Mica Law Office with any questions regarding this qualification).
Language
Individuals applying for United States Citizenship must demonstrate the ability to read, write, speak, and understand common words in the English language. There are some exemptions to this rule, including individuals who have resided in the United States as a Permanent Resident for 15-20 years or more and meet certain age requirements, and for individuals with physical or mental impairment.
History and Government
Each applicant for citizenship must also demonstrate an understanding of the basic history and form of government of the United States. As above, there is an exemption for individuals who have a physical or mental impairment that negatively affects that individual’s ability to learn the history and form of government of the United States.
Free Immigration & Naturalization Consultation
The immigration attorneys at the Raza Mica Law Office provide free telephone consultations anyone seeking immigration, residency, or citizenship in the United States. Simply call (888) Raza-Mica or (918) 878-0558 now to consult with an Oklahoma Immigration lawyer or submit the form at the top left of this page.
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