When researching U.S. Citizenship through marriage, many individuals may feel submerged by the amount of information available on the subject. Understanding the process and requirements associated with acquiring a green card or U.S. citizenship through marriage is essential to ensure meeting all criteria before applying.
U.S. Citizenship through marriage allows a foreign national to become a U.S. citizen if they marry an American citizen. To qualify for U.S. citizenship, the immigrant must meet specific requirements, including having legally lived in the United States for at least three years and having a valid marriage certificate proving that the couple is legally married. The immigrant must also pass a background check, english and civics test and demonstrate good moral character.
This blog will discuss citizenship through the marriage process. Let’s begin!
Understanding the Process; How To Get Citizenship Through Marriage
Getting U.S. citizenship through marriage is known as “marriage-based naturalization.” It involves several steps, beginning with filing an immigrant visa petition by the American spouse and ending with being sworn in as a U.S. citizen. Let’s take a closer look at the steps.
U.S. Citizenship Through Marriage Requirements
For an individual to obtain U.S. citizenship through marriage, the couple must meet specific requirements. The first requirement is that the union be legally recognized in the United States and entered into in good faith, not solely for immigration purposes.
The foreign-born spouse must also be eligible for legal permanent residence (LPR) to file Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. To be eligible for LPR status, the foreign-born spouse must have been legally admitted into the country with a valid visa and must not have violated any immigration laws.
Conditional Residence and Removing Conditions
If you get married to a U.S. Citizen and arrive in the United States before your second wedding anniversary, you will be a conditional resident. Additionally, your children may also become conditional residents.
Removing conditions when you marry a U.S. citizen allows permanent resident spouses of U.S. citizens to become full-fledged American citizens without returning to their home countries and waiting for the standard naturalization process, which can take several years.
Navigating the Naturalization Process
The naturalization process can begin once you have married your U.S. Citizen spouse. To start, fill out and submit Form N-400 Application for Naturalization with the required documents to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The forms will require information about you, your spouse, and any children included in the application. You will also need proof of your marriage, such as a copy of your marriage certificate.
Knowledgeable Lawyers Are Ready To Assist You
The Presti Law Firm has significant experience helping individuals obtain U.S. citizenship through marriage. We understand that the process can be long and complicated, so we provide comprehensive legal services to help you navigate this path effectively and efficiently. There is no need to feel overwhelmed with all the legal documentation. You shouldn’t feel nervous about the process when you have legal representation.
Our experienced team of attorneys will help guide you through each stage so that you know what to expect and when. We will provide comprehensive advice and assistance throughout the process, from filling out paperwork to appearing in court. We will also ensure that you understand all of your rights to make the best decisions for yourself and your family.