Giselle M. Rodriguez is a Boston immigration lawyer who helps clients with the full range of immigration challenges, including citizenship and naturalization. She is bilingual (English & Spanish). Contact Giselle today to discuss your case, or read on to learn more.
Citizenship vs. Naturalization: How Are They Different?
Citizenship is often the last step in the overall immigration process. Before we get into its processes and requirements, it is important to distinguish between the terms “citizenship” and “naturalization.”
The process of naturalization allows a lawful permanent resident to become a citizen if he or she successfully meets a list of requirements established by the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). Citizenship, on the other hand, is granted to the children of US citizens at birth or, in some cases, after birth.
Why become a US citizen? What Are the Benefits of US Citizenship?
- Right to vote
- Low risk of deportation
- You will not have to worry about permanent residence status abandonment by extended travels abroad
- Potential tax benefits
- And more…
If you are not a US citizen citizen by birth or have not derived such status through your parents (through birthright), then you will likely need to have your legal permanent status for 5 years (assuming other Immigration and National Act requirements have been fulfilled) before you can apply for citizenship. You apply for citizenship with a N-400 application.
What Are The Requirements for the N-400 Application for Naturalization?
- Five years as a LPR (Legal Permanent Resident)
- Be of age 18
- Fulfill the continuous residence and physical presence requirements
- Good moral character
- Able to pass the civics/U.S. history examination at the USCIS interview
- You may qualify for an English language exemption, disability accommodations, continuous residence exceptions, and/or a medical disability exception to the English and Civics components (Contact us for more information).
In some situations you may be able to get the filing fees waived.
Other Possible Pathways to US Citizenship:
- You served at least one year in the U.S Armed Forces
- If you are married to a US Citizen you may be able to submit the N-400 Application for Naturalization in three years, instead of five.
If you’ve got a citizenship or naturalization challenge, contact Boston immigration attorney Giselle M. Rodriguez today to discuss your situation.
Some Reviews from Citizenship Clients
Below are reviews from some of my clients. Of course, these reviews are not legal advice, and are not a guarantee of any specific case results. The reviews below should simply give you a good idea of what kind of service you can expect as my client.
“I was looking for a lawyer for my mother to assist in her naturalization process and found Ms. Rodriguez on Justia. I am very happy with her services. Her fees were reasonable and she was always available to answer any questions either by email or in person.” – Karla (see review on Google Maps)
“Giselle is passionate about her clients and wants to make a difference in her community. she is great filing the Application for Naturalization (N-400). If you would like to become a US citizen based on marriage I highly recommend working with Giselle.” – Kevin (see review on Google Maps)
“Giselle is a professional lawyer and a woman passionate about helping people. I am very grateful to her. She helped me with the N400 naturalization process. She prepared me and accompanied me during my interview. It was a success, thanks to God and to her. 100% recommended for her responsibility and honesty.” – Natalia (see review on Google Maps)