Getting a green card may seem like a dream to many immigrants wanting to live in the land of opportunity, but being naturalized, becoming a U.S. citizen, is truly where all the opportunities are.

Why become a U.S. citizen? There are more jobs and opportunities for people of all skills. Children have more opportunity for higher education. By paying taxes you become eligible for benefits when you retire. And even better, the best jobs in the world are in the U.S., and you must be a citizen to get the majority of them. It’s really no secret, with about 1 million immigrants coming into the country every year.

What do you need to do to be eligible for U.S. citizenship?
There are many requirements you can get by talking with a lawyer, but the basic ones are pretty simple. -You have lived in the U.S. legally for at least five years
-You have been present for at least half of those last five years
-You’ve been a resident of the state or district your filing in for at least three months
-You have not spent more than a year outside the U.S.
-Your primary home is in the U.S.
-You are 18 or older
-You can speak, read, and write in the English language
-You can swear you believe in the U.S. and will be loyal to this country
-You can pass a test on U.S. history and government
-You have good moral character

That may sound like a lot, and it is. The laws can be complex.

What if one of these immigration laws do not apply to you?
Some, such as being a permanent resident for five years, are written in stone. Others you can improve upon, such as how you handle tests on U.S. history and government, as well as mastering the English language.

How do you pass all these and successfully earn U.S. citizenship?
Hiring an immigration  lawyer has immense benefits if you want to be naturalized as a U.S citizen. A good immigration lawyer can walk you through all the documents you have to fill out, all the questions you have to answer, and all fees you have to pay. Becoming a U.S. citizen is a life changing event for many, and can be for you too.

How to Hire an Immigration Lawyer
If you’re interested in hiring an immigration lawyer, you must find one who can help with everything. By reading this blog, you are showing an interest in immigration law. Take that interest to hiring experts on immigration law. Ask for references from people you know with legal experience. Query several immigration lawyers and ask them how they can help. Also be sure to ask their workload, fees, and how much experience they have.

Becoming a U.S. Citizen
Naturalization happens to thousands every year, and most are a direct result of an understanding of immigration law. Now that you know you need an expert, start searching for the right immigration lawyer in your area.