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The Road to Citizenship Starts Here
Citizenship in the United States can only be earned through birth, derivation, or naturalization.
Citizens of the United States enjoy a variety of rights and privileges, and their status cannot be jeopardized by extended travel overseas. A U.S. citizen can also petition for a family member's permanent residency. Berger, Berger & Sobieski is a Buffalo-based immigration and citizenship legal practice that serves the greater WNY region and the entire country. Our citizenship lawyers have more than 50 years of combined expertise managing difficult immigration situations. Our team of citizenship lawyers can assist you in determining your eligibility for naturalization, advising you on future naturalization plans, and representing you during the application process.
Basic Prerequisites for Applying for Citizenship
- At least 18 years old
- Permanent residence status for at least 5 years (although, 3 years may be sufficient for applicants who are married to U.S citizens)
- You must have spent at least three months in the state in which you are applying, at the time of filing the application
- 5 years of continuous residence in the United States (or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen, and using this as the basis for filing for the application)
- Possess "good moral character” (for 3 or 5 years, depending on the basis of your application)
- Pass exams demonstrating that you can read, write, and speak basic English, as well as that you have some knowledge of the US government and history. There is a potential exception to this for those who have medical disabilities which prevent them from learning the English language. However, this can only be determined by a qualified doctor, who must meet with you and determine if you have such a disability. There are also limited exceptions to the civics exam only for those who have reached a certain age and length of time as green card holder in the U.S.
- Applicant must also prove that they have spent generally at least half of their time in the last 3 or 5 years (depending on the basis of your application) physically residing in the U.S. Additionally, no trips of over a year are allowed in this period. Furthermore, any trips outside of the U.S. of 6 months or more must be thoroughly explained
If you have concerns that may affect your eligibility, we can assist in determining your candidacy for citizenship or make plans for future naturalization. Our lawyers will defend you throughout the process, and we have experience with complicated cases, including naturalization by birth or derivation.
Make an appointment with our qualified naturalization attorneys to see if you are eligible to become a citizen of the United States.