Becoming a U.S. citizen is a significant milestone that offers long-term security and expanded rights. Citizenship provides permanent status in the United States, the right to vote, eligibility for certain government benefits, and protection from deportation. While lawful permanent residence allows you to live and work in the U.S., it does not offer the same level of protection or privileges as citizenship.

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The citizenship process can be detailed and legally complex. At Behkar Law, our immigration attorneys guide individuals and families through each stage of the process, helping them understand eligibility requirements and avoid common mistakes that could delay or jeopardize an application.

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HOW TO BECOME A U.S. CITIZEN

If you were not born in the United States, there are several ways you may qualify for U.S. citizenship.

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Citizenship Through Naturalization
Naturalization is the most common path to citizenship. In general, applicants must be lawful permanent residents for at least five years before applying. Certain individuals may qualify sooner, such as those married to U.S. citizens or individuals with qualifying military service.

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Citizenship Through Transmission
Some individuals are U.S. citizens at birth, even if they were born outside the United States. This depends on whether one or both parents were U.S. citizens at the time of birth and whether specific legal requirements were met. Citizenship transmission laws vary depending on the year of birth.

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Citizenship Through Acquisition
In certain cases, a child may automatically acquire U.S. citizenship after birth. This typically occurs when a child becomes a lawful permanent resident before turning 18 and at least one parent naturalizes as a U.S. citizen while the child is residing in the United States.

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LEARN ABOUT YOUR ELIGIBILITY FOR U.S. CITIZENSHIP

U.S. immigration laws change over time, and the rules that apply to your case may depend on when you entered the United States or obtained permanent residence. In many situations, earlier versions of the law may still control your eligibility.

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The attorneys at Behkar Law have experience working with both current and prior immigration laws and can help determine which legal standards apply to your situation. We take a careful, individualized approach to each citizenship case to ensure compliance with all applicable requirements.

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CITIZENSHIP RESOURCES AND INSIGHTS

Understanding the naturalization process includes preparing for the English and civics test, maintaining continuous residence, demonstrating good moral character, and completing the interview process. Strategic planning is especially important for applicants with prior immigration issues, criminal history, or long periods of travel outside the United States.

Our team assists clients in identifying potential challenges early and developing a plan to address them before filing an application.