|
Naturalization is the process whereby a lawful permanent resident who
has resided in the U.S. for five (5) or three (3) years in the case of
marriage to a U.S. citizen, applies for citizenship.
Many legal residents have decided not to apply for
citizenship even though they are eligible. Those permanent residents
who have not yet applied for citizenship even though eligible, should
carefully consider that in today’s world, loss of their permanent
residency and removal from the U.S. is much easier and more likely
to occur than ever before. Therefore, if you are a permanent resident,
you should consult with a competent immigration lawyer to discuss your
individual case in order to determine if you are eligible.
In addition to the residency requirements, there is also the requirement
that a resident seeking to become a U.S. citizen must demonstrate good
moral character. In the case of a resident immigrant with prior criminal
conviction(s), establishing good moral character can be difficult.
Our law office provides legal analysis and services for those lawful
permanent residents seeking post conviction relief. We file motions
in the criminal courts to vacate, modify, or expunge those
prior conviction(s) so they no longer can be used by the immigration
service to deny naturalization on lack of good moral character grounds.
|