Naturalization

Illinois Naturalization Lawyer

In the years following September 11, 2001, it has become more difficult for legal permanent residents to move through the country or leave the country and return. Therefore, it has become more valuable for legal permanent residents to go through the naturalization process and become a United States Citizen. In most cases, these individuals will be allowed to keep any citizenship in their home country.

The law office of Ana M. Mencini & Associates, P.C. is experienced helping legal permanent residents through the naturalization process. We offer professionalism, respect, and personal assistance to help you become a citizen. Contact our Itasca law office to speak with an experienced immigration and naturalization attorney.

Clients retaining our firm to assist them in the naturalization process are entitled to attend our naturalization classes at no additional cost. These classes are taught by a former college professor who focuses on both the civics and English tests.

Requirements for Naturalization

There are general requirements for naturalization. However, there are occasional deviations from these guidelines. In order to prepare for the naturalization process, it is important to understand these general guidelines, such as:

• You must have been a legal permanent resident for a number of years (3 years when married to a U.S. citizen; 5 years when not married to a U.S. citizen)
• You must have lived in the district you are requesting naturalization from for at least 90 days
• You must have lived in the same place the entire 90 days (without leaving the country)
• You must have physically been in the United States for at least 30 months prior to naturalization
• You must have had good moral character for the previous 5 years (no criminal activity)
• You must pass an English and Civics test
• You must be at least 18 years old

Why Hire an Attorney?

The naturalization process is much more complex than the simple forms that can be found on the Internet. Before granting citizenship, the government will conduct an in depth investigation of your background and history. Things that seem minor in the past may make naturalization more difficult.

As experienced immigration and naturalization lawyers, we can help you through the challenges in the naturalization process. We understand how to search for issues that may cause problems and how to overcome these problems.

If you would like to consult a skilled immigration and naturalization lawyer about becoming a naturalized citizen, please contact us to schedule a consultation. We assist clients in Illinois and nationwide.