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John Nicelli & Associates

Citizen Immigration Lawyer in Staten Island, 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.

Citizen Immigration Lawyer
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:

United States Immigration Attorney

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 Staten Island. 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:

United States Immigration Attorney

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 Staten Island 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

United States Immigration Attorney

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 Staten Island citizenship lawyer can help assess what documents you need and represent you during the in-person interview.

United States Immigration Attorney

The Oath of Allegiance

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About Staten Island, NY

Staten Island NY, a bustling borough of the city that never sleeps, plays host to the renowned John Nicelli & Associates. Known for their exceptional work in immigration law, this top-rated firm has a deep-rooted connection to Staten Island, leveraging the distinctive qualities and opportunities that set this place apart.

Nestled in the coordinates of 40.5795° N, 74.1502° W, Staten Island is marked by an eclectic mix of vibrant neighborhoods usually bustling with over 476,143 residents. From the lush greenery of Clove Lakes Park to the historical landmark of Snug Harbor Cultural Center, there are countless sights to see.

Our services cover every corner of Staten Island, from the tranquil neighborhood of Bulls Head to the historically-rich Todt Hill. We extend our professional expertise to Staten Islanders residing in St. George, Grant City, and Tottenville, ensuring everyone has access to top-notch immigration counsel.

The climate in Staten Island is dynamic, as it is in immigration law. John Nicelli & Associates always acclimatizes to these changing conditions, providing advice and solutions tailored to individual needs. Furthermore, our firm upholds all local Staten Island regulations, evidencing our commitment to maintaining high professional standards.

We understand that to truly serve Staten Island, we must respect its eco-conscious ethos. That's why we've taken strides to reinforce our commitment to environmental sustainability. By implementing eco-friendly initiatives such as reducing our paper consumption, we match the community's drive for a greener tomorrow.

By engaging with John Nicelli & Associates, you'll gain access to top-tier immigration law services, uniquely tailored to you and the vibrant community of Staten Island NY. Reach out today for a partnered journey through immigration, marked by thorough understanding, tailored solutions, and unwavering diligence.

Staten Island, NY (Expressway Plaza shopping center. Bus will stop on Christopher Lane, near Stop and Shop.)

Hylan Blvd/Bay Terrace

Amboy Rd/Beach Ave

College of S.I. Loop Rd/South Admin Building

Hylan Blvd/Ebbitts St

Eltingville/Transit Center

Richmond Rd/New Dorp Ln

Victory Blvd/Arlene St

Hylan Blvd/Nelson Av

Hylan Blvd/Coddington Ave

Annadale Rd/Tynan St

Richmond Rd/New Dorp Ln

Victory Blvd/N Gannon Ave

Rose Ave/New Dorp Plaza

Hylan Blvd/Guyon Av

Arthur Kill Rd/Giffords Ln

Woodrow Rd/Almond St

Arthur Kill Rd/Newvale Ave

Marsh Ave/Ring Rd

Richmond Hill Rd/Vassar St