One common question we hear is, just what is naturalization?

But to answer that question, you have to know what immigration law, immigration visas, and green cards are. This post will educate you on immigration law, but if you have more questions, feel free to contact us or comment.

What is immigration law?
This is a federal guideline (or law) used by the United States government in regulating travel and residency here. That means the U.S. government is the first person you go to if you want to stay, work, and permanently live here. Also, under federal law you can be deported if you break immigration law.

What is an immigrant?
An immigrant either 1) wants to live for an extended period in the U.S. or 2) wants to live here permanently. If you get a green card, you are considered a permanent resident.

What is an immigrant visa?
This is authorization to stay in the U.S.. after qualifying for permanent residency.

What is a green card?
A green card is given to you if you qualify for permanent residency status. If you want to become a U.S. citizen, in most cases you first need to be a permanent resident. A green card lasts 10 years and allows you to live and work in the U.S. You do have to reapply after 10 years, or apply successfully for citizenship. You can apply for a green card with an immigration attorney’s help. You can technically be deported for breaking U.S. laws. The good thing is you are eligible to stay, study, and work in this country, and you can sponsor other family to do the same.

Now, what is naturalization?
If you are naturalized, that means you are a legal citizen of the United States. This is the dream for many immigrants, especially in dangerous, economically weak, and unstable countries who want the opportunity to live, study and work in the U.S.

How do you become naturalized, a U.S. Citizen?

You can apply under one of three steps.
1-You have been a permanent resident for five years
2-You have been a lawful permanent resident for three years, have been married to a U.S. citizen for those years, and you continue to be married.
3-Or, your parents are U.S. citizens. If you are under 18 years of age and your parents are citizens, you are automatically a U.S. citizen. Otherwise you can apply with a good chance of success.

Will your children be U.S. Citizens?
If you have a child and you’re a U.S. citizen, he or she is automatically considered to be naturalized. The limit is 18 years. If you were just naturalized and you have a 20 year-old son, for example, he can be sponsored through you but he isn’t automatically a citizen.

What’s the first step?
The first step in becoming a U.S. citizen is to do some research and ask for help. An experienced immigration attorney can help you get a green card, become a U.S. citizen, sponsor family, and reap all the rewards of living and working in the United States.