Experienced Maryland Naturalization And Citizenship Lawyer
The pathway to becoming an American citizen can be a complex and challenging endeavor. You have deadlines to meet, requirements to fulfill and many small details to remember. Since your future hangs in the balance, it is crucial to get your naturalization efforts off to the right start. While dealing with the U.S. immigration system is undeniably intimidating, an experienced citizenship lawyer can make a positive difference.
From our location in Prince George’s County, Babila Law, LLC, helps with immigration matters in Maryland and the entire East Coast. Our founding attorney, Junior Babila Ngwa, is a former immigrant, giving him unique insight and knowledge into the process of naturalization to use on your behalf. Our slogan is “for immigrants, by immigrants,” but it means much more. It is who we are and defines how we can guide you through this journey.
What Should You Expect At A Naturalization Interview?
The naturalization process begins when you submit your Application for Naturalization (Form N-400) to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). After you file, USCIS will review your application and background information to confirm your eligibility for citizenship.
As part of this process, you may be scheduled for a biometrics appointment to provide fingerprints, photographs, and a signature. USCIS will notify you if biometrics are required.
Once your application and background checks are complete, USCIS will schedule your naturalization interview. In Maryland, interviews are typically conducted at the Baltimore Field Office, where same-day oath ceremonies may occasionally take place.
If you are attending a naturalization interview, it can be helpful to gather important documents in advance. Examples include:
- Your permanent resident card or green card
- Any passports that you have in your possession
- A driver’s license or another type of state-issued ID
- Proof of continuous residence in the United States since you were granted permanent residence.
As you go through the interview, you will take an oath to be honest and truthful before you go on to discuss your application with a USCIS officer. They may speak with you or ask questions to clarify information or responses. Being able to understand and speak English is important, and you may need to write or read English sentences. The interview also contains a civics test regarding the U.S. government and the nation’s history.
While this can feel intimidating, it is a critical part of becoming a U.S. citizen. Having an experienced immigration attorney by your side can help you prepare, stay confident, and ensure that your application process goes smoothly.
Are There Expedited Citizenship Options?
For most applicants, USCIS requires that you hold lawful permanent resident (LPR) status for a minimum of five years before applying for naturalization. This is known as the continuous residence requirement.
However, there are limited exceptions. Under INA Section 319(b), some spouses of U.S. citizens who are employed by the United States and work overseas may be able to qualify for expedited citizenship.
To qualify, the applicant must:
- Already be a LPR, and
- Be married to a U.S. citizen who is employed by the U.S. government, such as serving in the Armed Forces.
The government recognizes that the immigrant spouse may live with them abroad until the term of employment ends. However, the applicant may still be granted citizenship if they can demonstrate an intent to live continuously in the United States after that point. This exception applies even if they technically do not meet the continuous residence requirements due to their spouse’s employment overseas.
Separately, under INA Section 319(a), certain spouses of U.S. citizens who reside together in the United States may apply for naturalization after three years instead of the usual five.
To qualify, the applicant must have:
- Been a lawful permanent resident for at least three years
- Lived in marital union with the U.S. citizen spouse for those same three years
- Must have lived in the state of filing for at least three months before applying
However, unlike INA Section 319(b), this pathway does not waive the requirements of continuous residence or physical presence.
Call For A Consultation
From our office in Prince George’s County, Maryland, we assist with immigration matters in Bowie, Hyattsville, Silver Spring and Maryland, and across the East Coast. If you want to learn more about your options, call us at 240-945-2658 or use the online contact form to schedule a consultation with a seasoned citizenship attorney.