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John Nicelli & Associates

Citizen Immigration Lawyer in Hempstead, NY

United States Immigration Attorney

Assisting Clients with Citizenship via Naturalization

United States Immigration Attorney

What is the Importance of Citizenship?

Citizenship is important because there are many advantages that are only available to those who are U.S. citizens.

Below are the top 6 reasons to obtain citizenship:

The country has a long history of welcoming immigrants into its citizenry through the process of naturalization, in which lawful permanent residents undergo a series of steps to confirm eligibility and ultimately take the Oath of Allegiance.

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United States Immigration Attorney

How to Qualify for Citizenship Through Naturalization

Becoming a United States citizen can be an expensive, time-consuming process. In addition to undergoing a mandatory waiting period after receiving your green card, you must meet all conditions of a rigorous criteria.

If you want to become a United States citizen through naturalization, the following must apply:

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What is "Good Moral Character"?

You may be wondering what constitutes “good moral character” and how USCIS can objectively measure these qualities in an applicant. Sadly, the good moral character determination can seem frustratingly arbitrary and is in many circumstances handled on a case-by-case basis.

There are several disqualifying factors USCIS looks for, however. Violent felony crimes tend to trigger automatic rejections, as does any fraudulent behavior when communicating with USCIS or any other government agency. Less serious crimes could also come under scrutiny, but a minor criminal record – especially if the offenses occurred many years ago – can often be overcome with the assistance of an experienced citizenship lawyer.

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What is the Naturalization Process? Let Us Be Your Guide.

Ensure that you meet all the eligibility requirements. If you are unsure, your best option is to contact an experienced naturalization lawyer in Hempstead. We can ensure that you are eligible to prevent delays in your application. Firstly, you will need a green card, which makes you a lawful permanent resident, to become a United States citizen through naturalization. After you receive your green card, you cannot immediately apply for citizenship. Depending on the type of green card and individual circumstances, you will be required to submit to a waiting period before proceeding with naturalization and reside in the United States for a majority of that time. If you are eligible, you may begin the process.

Below is an overview of the naturalization process:

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United States Immigration Attorney

How Long Does Naturalization Take?

Some common green card scenarios and their corresponding wait time requirements include:

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The Application Process

Once you have undergone the mandatory waiting period and meet all other eligibility requirements, it is time to file the formal application for naturalization with USCIS. This application is called Form N-400, the Application for Naturalization. You will also need to pay the associated filing fees when submitting your application.

Some of the documents you will need to correctly submit Form N-400 include:

If you are applying as a result of serving in the military, you will also have to provide proof of your qualifying service. If you are seeking exemptions from the naturalization exam (discussed more below), you will also have to submit proof of a qualifying medical disability.

It is critical that Form N-400 be submitted accurately and with all of the necessary documents. Any errors, mistakes, or omissions can trigger a rejection from USCIS and force you to start the entire naturalization process over from the beginning. This means you will not only have to fill out a new application, you may also have to repay filing fees and endure lengthy processing times. Our Hempstead citizenship attorney can help you and work to ensure Form N-400 is filled out and submitted accurately.

In addition to filing the application, you will also be required to have your fingerprints taken after you are scheduled by USCIS at a biometrics office.

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The Naturalization Exam

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The USCIS Interview

Once USCIS has processed your application and encountered no disqualifying factors, the agency will schedule an interview at your local field office. The agents will ask you questions about information on your application. You will in most circumstances be permitted to bring a legal representative to the interview if you properly requested one with your application.

You will also be required to bring a trove of documentation to validate information included on your application. Some of this may feel redundant, but it is critical you bring as much supporting evidence as possible.

Some of the documents you should plan to bring to your USCIS interview include:

As we mentioned above, you should be prepared to discuss any criminal record you may have, even if the offenses seem insignificant. You should bring all documentation involving each case, including evidence establishing the final outcome, the completion of any served time or required probation, and records of any plea bargains or expunged infractions.

When in doubt, bring more evidence than you think might be necessary. Not having the proper documentation can delay the naturalization process or even result in your application’s rejection. Our Hempstead citizenship lawyer can help assess what documents you need and represent you during the in-person interview.

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The Oath of Allegiance

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About Hempstead, NY

Located within the idyllic confines of Hempstead, NY, John Nicelli & Associates stands distinguishably among top-rated immigration lawyers in the industry. Our unique positioning in the heart of this bustling locality, excitedly known for its rich culture and significant landmarks, provides a distinctive advantage and creates a plethora of opportunities tailored to the local community's precise needs.

Hempstead, NY, found at 40.7062° N, 73.6187° W coordinates, is richly historic and teeming with beautiful landmarks waiting to be explored. The renowned Hempstead Town Hall, exceptional Eisenhower Park, noteworthy Hofstra University and hospitable Garden City Hotel are just a few points of interest among many others to explore.

Currently home to around 55,113 residents, Hempstead boasts a vibrant and diverse population. The city experiences a temperate climate, something John Nicelli & Associates always take into consideration while working with our clients, ensuring their comfort and satisfaction are prioritized.

Serving distinct neighborhoods like Uniondale, Franklin Square, West Hempstead, South Hempstead, and Garden City, John Nicelli & Associates are intimately familiar with the diverse community structures, customs, and legal nuances. Our firm ensures full compliance with local regulations whilst delivering top-tier immigration services.

As passionate contributors to Hempstead’s eco-conscious initiatives, John Nicelli & Associates utilize recycled materials and engage sustainable methods where applicable. We prioritize enhancing the vitality of our local ecosystems and partnering with the community in making Hempstead, NY, a greener, safer place to live.

Experience the benefits of partnering with John Nicelli & Associates. Deeply connected within the Hempstead community, we're here to offer bespoke, top-rated immigration solutions tailored to your specific needs. Let us be your trusted partner in realizing your American dream, here in the heart of Hempstead, NY.

Hempstead

Greyhound: Bus Station

Front St / Fulton

Hempstead Tpke + Oak St

Oak St / Hempstead

Hempstead Tp / Oak

Front St + Peninsula Blvd

Main St + Peninsula Blvd.

Main St + Front St.

Rosa Parks - Hempstead Transit Center

Broad St / Hempstead

Hempstead Tpke + Earle Ovington Blv

Hempstead Transit Center

Centre St / Franklin

S Franklin Ave + Lawson St

Front St + William St

Fairview Dr / Hempstead

Terrace Av / Fulton

Clinton St + Fulton St

Front St + Broadfield St