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NATURALIZATION
KENTUCKY NATURALIZATION LAWYERS

There is nothing more exciting than watching newly naturalized U.S. citizens take an oath of allegiance. At O'Brien Law Group we've watched many clients become naturalized and we want to help you.
How to Become a Naturalized U.S. Citizen
Are you or someone you know interested in becoming a U.S. Citizen through naturalization? Contact our Louisville, Kentucky immigration lawyers today.
When an individual is not born a U.S. citizen or didn't obtain citizenship immediately after birth there are alternative ways to obtain citizenship. A common pathway to citizenship is through naturalization, this pathway does have a series of qualifying standards in order for their application to be accepted.
Qualifications for eligibility:
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You are 18 years or older
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Defined as having "good moral character"
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Have an adequate understanding of U.S. history and government
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Have remained physical presence in the U.S.
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Able to read, write, and speak English. (can sometimes be waived for elderly or those with mental disabilities)
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Been a permanent resident for at least 5 years (proof of green card)
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Or: Been a permanent resident for 3 years while married to a U.S. citizen
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Or: Been a permanent resident who has served honorably in the U.S. military.
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has provided prospective naturalized citizens with a Naturalization Eligibility Worksheet along with a set of instructions. This sheet was created to help people 18 years of age or older with permanent residency decide if they are eligible to apply for naturalization.
Who Should Not Use This Worksheet?
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Persons under the age of 18 who want to apply for naturalization based on their parents’ citizenship (or their adopted parents’ citizenship)
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Persons who wish to apply for naturalization based on their active duty service in the U.S. Armed Forces
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A permanent resident whose spouse was a U.S. citizen that died while on active duty in the U.S. Armed forces
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Persons whose spouses are U.S. citizens and either:
– an employee / contractor of the U.S. Government
– an employee of an American-owned firm
– an employee of an American institution of research
– an employee of a public international organization
– a clergy member
– a member of the U.S. Armed Forces
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What are the requirements to apply for naturalization?Those who are at least 18 years of age, have been a permanent resident for a specific amount of time (usually over five years), have a “good moral character” and have an adequate understanding of U.S. history, government. Additionally you will need to know how to speak, write and read English. Those who have honorably served in the military are also eligible if they meet other qualifications.
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What is the average time it takes for naturalization?The process usually lasts for abut six months after filing the Form N-400. Wait times can be shorter, or sometimes longer. How long you wait depends largely on your situation and your location. However, with the help of experienced immigration lawyers it is possible to streamline this process.
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My application was denied, now what?"Even after being denied there are steps to appeal a denial of naturalization. You will be able to schedule a hearing, you will submit an official letter detailing why you believe that your application was wrongfully denied. This letter must be submitted, along with the Form N-336, within 30 days of the denial. In some instances such as being denied on the grounds of failing the naturalization test you may be able to reapply. Call our firm today in order to navigate the tricky process of naturalization
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Am I citizen after being granted naturalization?You will need to partake in a formal ceremony where you will take an Oath of Allegiance.
Are you wanting to obtain U.S. Citizenship? Let our experienced Kentucky Lawyers help. Contact our office in Louisville to BEGIN.
Immigration Lawyers Serving Kentucky
At O'Brien Law Group our immigration attorneys in Kentucky can assist you in preparing all of the critical paperwork to begin the citizenship process and adequately prepare you for your interview with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services. If you are ready to start on your path to citizenship contact our firm as soon as possible. Our experienced immigration attorneys Rusty O'Brien and Adrienne Pfendt will help you get started on this exciting journey.
Serving Louisville, Lexington, Owensboro And All Of Kentucky
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