Chino Hills Naturalization Attorneys

Proudly Helping Immigrants Become U.S. Citizens in California and Nevada

Many immigrants hope to eventually become United States citizens. Only lawful permanent residents, also called green card holders, will be eligible for naturalization. Prospective citizens must also meet several other criteria.

At Parikh & Prasad, PC, we are committed to helping immigrants achieve their American Dreams. Our Chino Hills naturalization lawyers have a decade of legal experience and are well-versed in how to efficiently navigate the citizenship application process. We will walk you through what the naturalization process entails, and you will have direct access to our attorneys throughout our firm’s handling of your case.  

What is Naturalization?

The process of naturalization involves granting U.S. citizenship to a lawful permanent resident who meets the requirements outlined in the Immigration Act and Nationality Act (INA).

Am I Eligible for Naturalization?

You must have a green card before you can contemplate applying for U.S. citizenship. Most immigrants obtain green cards through employment, family sponsorship, or investment. If you do not yet have a green card, our firm can help you explore your options.

Once you have a green card, you must also meet the following requirements before applying for naturalization:

• You must maintain several years of continuous and physical presence. Generally, this means you cannot leave the United States for more than six months at a time or go abroad too often before becoming a citizen. If you received your green card through marriage to a U.S. citizen, you can apply after five years. Otherwise, you will most likely need to live in the United States for at least five years as a lawful permanent resident before you can apply.
• You must be at least 18 years old. Minors cannot become citizens through naturalization.
• You must live in the state from which you will apply for at least three months. If you have recently moved to a new state but meet all other requirements, you must wait until you have resided in your new home for three months before proceeding.
• You must be willing to serve in the U.S. military if called upon. You must also be willing to perform civilian service and be willing to defend the U.S. Constitution.
• You must register with Selective Service System. This requirement only applies if you are male and lived in the U.S. between the ages of 18 and 25.
• You must have “good moral character.” In most cases, this means you cannot have been convicted of a felony, a crime of moral turpitude, or any type of fraud.

Exceptions to some of these requirements may be available in some limited circumstances. Our Chino Hills naturalization attorneys can assess your eligibility and advise whether you qualify. 

Ms. Parikh and Mr. Prasad are experienced immigration attorneys California and Nevada. Discuss your naturalization eligibility today by calling (909) 455-9625 or contacting us online.