Immigration Attorneys in Boston

Our Immigration Attorneys in Boston Answer: What Are the Basic Differences Between Naturalization and Citizenship?

If you are a legal permanent resident and interested in the naturalization process, you may wonder what the difference is between naturalization and citizenship. Our immigration lawyers in Boston MA can explain this distinction and information you need to know about the naturalization process.

Acquiring Citizenship

Naturalization is a process that foreign nationals use to become U.S. citizens while citizenship is granted as a birthright to anyone born in the United States, on U.S. soil, or by U.S. citizen parents. The naturalization process is overseen by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service. It is a process available to eligible foreign nationals who are 18 or older who meet the requirements established by Congress in the Immigration and National Act.

Rights of Citizens

The rights of naturalized citizens and those who have citizenship status as a birthright are indistinguishable. In contrast to a legal permanent resident, a citizen cannot generally be deported. Citizens have various rights in the United States, including:

• The right to vote
• The right to obtain a U.S. passport
• The right to protection under the constitution

Eligibility for Naturalization 

To qualify for naturalization, you must meet one of the following conditions:

• You have been a permanent resident for at least 5 years
• You have been a permanent resident for 3 or more years and are the spouse of a U.S. citizen
• You have provided qualifying service in the U.S. armed forces
• Your parents are U.S. citizens and you reside outside the United States

You must also meet all of the other eligibility requirements of U.S.C.I.S. including:

• You have continuously resided in the United States for the applicable period immediately before filing your application for naturalization
• You have been physically present in the United States for at least 30 months out of the five years immediately before filing your application for naturalization
• You can demonstrate that you lived in the state or district for at least three months before your application
• You can prove you are a person of good moral character
• You are able to read, write, and speak basic English
• You demonstrate an attachment to the principles and ideals of the U.S. Constitution
• You have a basic understanding of U.S. civics
• You are willing to take an oath of allegiance to the United States

Naturalization Process

The naturalization process is multi-layered and may be complex, which is why many individuals seek immigration help in Boston and other areas from an experienced immigration and visa lawyers. The naturalization process typically begins well in advance by acquiring legal status, such as by marrying a U.S. citizen or becoming a legal permanent resident. 

Once you are eligible for naturalization, you can complete your application, Form N-400. You will need to take and pass a civics test. You may also be required to pass an additional English test. You will also need to attend a naturalization interview. If you meet all of the requirements and your application is approved, you will be given a certificate of naturalization and attend a citizenship ceremony. 

Help with the Naturalization Process

If you would like to help with the naturalization process, contact the Law Offices of Jeffrey A. Thompson, an immigration law firm in Boston. Our immigration attorneys in Boston can consult with you to determine if you meet the criteria to become a citizen and can assist you with the naturalization process. Call us at (508) 588-3700 to begin the process.