Citizenship Attorney in Houston, Texas

Citizens of the United States are entitled to live and work permanently in the U.S., vote in U.S. elections, serve on juries and hold a U.S. passport. U.S. citizens can sponsor their spouse, unmarried children under age 21, and parents as immediate relatives. These relatives do not have to wait for a visa number to become current. 

Becoming a U.S. citizen is a monumental milestone in any immigrant's journey, and I am honored to assist you in achieving this important goal. As a citizenship attorney at Calehr Law Firm, based in Houston, Texas, I leverage my comprehensive understanding of U.S. immigration law and personal experience to guide you through the citizenship process with confidence and ease. 

If you need assistance with any aspect of the naturalization process, feel free to contact me to schedule an initial consultation. I serve clients throughout the Greater Houston area, including Montrose, Greater Fifth Ward, Greater East End, Houston Heights, East Houston, Northside, Greater Uptown, Fort Bend, South Houston, and Clear Lake. 

Pathways to Citizenship 

Birth: Children born in the U.S. are automatically U.S. citizens, regardless of their parents' immigration status. Certain children born abroad to U.S. citizen parents are automatically U.S. citizens. 

Naturalization of a parent: A child born outside the U.S. may automatically become a U.S. citizen if one parent becomes a U.S. citizen prior to the child’s 18th birthday. 

Adoption by U.S. citizen parents: Certain children adopted and in the physical custody of their U.S. citizen parents for at least two years may acquire U.S. citizenship. The child must be under the age of 16 at the time of the legal adoption. 

Naturalization 

The general rule is that anyone over the age of 18 who has been a legal permanent resident alien for at least five (5) years may apply for naturalization. The applicant must have been physically present in the U.S. for at least 30 months out of the five years prior to the date of filing of the application and must have resided for at least three months within the state in which the application is filed. The applicant must demonstrate good moral character, be attached to the principles of the U.S. Constitution, be willing to bear arms on behalf of the U.S. or perform other work of national importance, and must not otherwise be barred from naturalizing, e.g., as having committed an aggravated felony. 

All naturalization applicants will be fingerprinted by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and have their criminal backgrounds reviewed by the FBI. The applicant must demonstrate a basic ability to read, write, speak, and understand the English language. The applicant must also pass a short oral or written test on the history and government of the U.S. Finally, the applicant must be interviewed in person by a USCIS officer. 

If the applicant is approved for naturalization, the applicant will attend a public ceremony and take the Oath of Allegiance to the United States. After taking the oath, the applicant will return the green card to the USCIS and receive a certificate of citizenship. This certificate of citizenship can be used to obtain a U.S. passport. 

What Are the Requirements for U.S. Citizenship? 

To be eligible for U.S. citizenship, applicants must meet several criteria, including:  

1. Permanent resident status: Applicants must have held a green card (permanent resident status) for at least five years, or three years if married to a U.S. citizen. 

2. Continuous residence: You must demonstrate continuous residence in the U.S. for at least five years (or three years for spouses of U.S. citizens) immediately preceding the date of filing Form N-400, application for naturalization. 

3. Physical presence: Applicants are required to have been physically present in the U.S. for at least 30 months out of the last five years (or 18 months out of the last three years if married to a U.S. citizen). 

4. Good moral character: Demonstrating good moral character is essential. This includes not having been involved in certain criminal activities, and generally being an upstanding member of the community. 

5. English language proficiency: Most applicants must show an ability to read, write, and speak basic English. Exceptions include individuals over a certain age with long-term residency in the U.S. 

6. Civics test: Passing a test on U.S. history and government is required. This test evaluates your knowledge of the fundamental principles and structure of the U.S. government as well as your understanding of U.S. history. 

7. Attachment to the Constitution: You must demonstrate an attachment to the principles and ideals of the U.S. Constitution, indicating your commitment to the country and its laws. 

8. Application process: Completing Form N-400, application for naturalization, attending a biometrics appointment (if applicable), and participating in a naturalization interview. 

At Calehr Law Firm, I am committed to assisting you through each of these steps and ensuring you meet all necessary requirements with confidence. If you have any questions or need more information, do not hesitate to contact me. 

Citizenship Services I Offer 

Having successfully navigated the immigration process myself, I am acutely aware of the emotional and legal challenges that accompany the pursuit of U.S. citizenship. I am committed to providing personalized and compassionate services to help you reach your naturalization goals. Below are the citizenship matters I can assist you with: 

Naturalization Applications 

Applying for U.S. citizenship through naturalization can be a complex and detail-oriented process. I provide comprehensive assistance with preparing and submitting Form N-400, Application for Naturalization. From eligibility verification to collecting necessary documentation and preparing for the naturalization interview, I ensure every step is meticulously handled to increase your chances of a successful outcome. 

Citizenship Through Parents 

Certain individuals may qualify for U.S. citizenship through their parents, either by birth or through derivative citizenship. I help clients determine their eligibility and assist with preparing and submitting the appropriate forms, such as Form N-600, Application for Certificate of Citizenship. My goal is to simplify the process and secure your rightful status as a U.S. citizen. 

Military Naturalization 

Active-duty service members and veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces may be eligible for expedited naturalization. At Calehr Law Firm, I provide guidance on eligibility criteria and assist with the preparation and submission of military naturalization applications. I ensure that service members receive the recognition and benefits they deserve for their dedication and service to the country. 

Dual Citizenship 

Navigating the requirements and implications of dual citizenship can be challenging. I help clients understand the legal ramifications and application procedures for maintaining dual citizenship status. My services include offering counsel on how to comply with the laws of both the United States and the other country involved. 

Citizenship Interview and Test Preparation 

The naturalization interview and test are critical components of the citizenship process. I offer comprehensive preparation services, including guidance on what to expect during the interview, reviewing potential questions, and studying for the English and civics tests. My personalized approach equips you with the knowledge and confidence needed to succeed. 

How Long Does the Naturalization Process Take? 

The timeline for naturalization varies based on individual circumstances and current government processing times. On average, it can take anywhere from six months to over a year from the time of application submission to the final oath ceremony. Factors like the completeness of your application and local USCIS office processing times may influence the duration. 

Committed to Your Journey Towards U.S. Citizenship 

At Calehr Law Firm, I recognize the significance of the citizenship process and the dedication it requires. My commitment is to provide exceptional, empathetic, and professional services to support your path to becoming a U.S. citizen. By scheduling a consultation with me, you enable yourself to navigate the naturalization process with assurance and clarity. Let us work together to achieve your citizenship dreams. Contact Calehr Law Firm today to begin your journey toward U.S. citizenship