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By Jarbath Pena Law Group
Why Should I Become a Naturalized U.S. Citizen?
Some noncitizens question whether or not citizenship is the right move. Today, the lawyers of the Jarbath Peña Law Group will discuss some of the most important benefits of going all the way through the immigration process to become a citizen of the U.S.
While some might question citizenship, becoming a naturalized U.S. citizen is a significant milestone for many hopeful immigrants. It’s a journey that transforms your legal status and opens doors to new opportunities, rights, and responsibilities. But what exactly does naturalization entail, and why should you consider taking this important step?
What Is Naturalization?
Naturalization is the legal process through which a non-U.S. citizen voluntarily becomes an American citizen. This process typically involves meeting specific residency requirements, demonstrating good moral character, passing English and civics tests, and taking an oath of allegiance to the United States. It’s a pathway that not only solidifies your presence in the country but also integrates you fully into its civic and social fabric.
Top 10 Reasons to Become a U.S. Citizen
There are quite a few naturalization benefits. Today, we’ll look at what we consider to be the top 10 naturalization benefits.
Voting Rights
Access to Federal Jobs
Eligibility for Federal Grants and Scholarships
Increased Travel Benefits
Protection from Deportation
Ability to Petition for Family Members
Access to Public Benefits
Jury Duty Participation
Social Security Benefits
Enhanced Sense of Belonging and Security
As you can see, there are numerous benefits to becoming a U.S. citizen. However, it does impact your relationship with your country of origin. You can check with your country’s laws to see if they will allow you to have dual citizenship with the U.S. If not, you might have a decision to make. In the meantime, let’s look a little more closely at the benefits of citizenship.
A Closer Look at Naturalization Benefits
Voting Rights
As a U.S. citizen, you gain the right to vote in federal, state, and local elections. This allows you to have a direct impact on the policies and leaders that shape your community and the country. Voting empowers you to voice your opinions on critical issues and ensures your interests are represented.
Access to Federal Jobs
Citizenship can open up employment opportunities in both the private and public sector. But particularly in the public sector, many federal jobs require U.S. citizenship. These positions often come with competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits, and job security. By becoming a citizen, you unlock these employment opportunities, potentially advancing your career and improving your financial stability.
Eligibility for Federal Grants and Scholarships
U.S. citizens are eligible for a variety of federal grants and scholarships that can help fund education and professional development. Whether you’re planning to attend college or pursue further training, these financial aids can make a significant difference in achieving your goals.
Increased Travel Benefits
First, as a citizen, the restriction on the amount of time you can spend outside the U.S. before losing your LPR status disappears. Also, you’ll receive a U.S. passport, which allows you to travel more freely to many countries. A U.S. passport offers visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to numerous destinations, making international travel more convenient. You also have the benefit of relying on U.S. consular support if you encounter any issues abroad.
Protection from Deportation
Naturalized citizens cannot be deported or removed from the United States except under very limited circumstances, such as committing serious crimes. This security ensures that you can build your life and plan for the future without fear of being separated from your family and community.
Ability to Petition for Family Members
As a U.S. citizen, you can sponsor certain family members for immigration to the United States, including parents, spouses, and unmarried children under 21. This ability to reunite with loved ones is a powerful incentive for many immigrants, fostering stronger family bonds and support systems.
Access to Public Benefits
Citizenship grants you access to a broader range of public benefits, such as healthcare programs, social security, and financial assistance. These benefits can provide critical support during times of need, ensuring you and your family are better protected and supported.
Jury Duty Participation
Serving on a jury is both a right and a civic duty. As a naturalized citizen, you have the opportunity to participate in the judicial process, contributing to the fair administration of justice. This involvement underscores your role as an active and engaged member of the community.
Social Security Benefits
If you’ve worked and paid into the U.S. Social Security system, naturalization ensures you can access these benefits. This includes retirement, disability, and survivor benefits, which all work together to provide more financial stability and peace of mind for you and your dependents.
Enhanced Sense of Belonging and Security
Often, becoming a U.S. citizen brings a profound sense of belonging and security. You are now fully recognized as a member of the society you’ve chosen to call home, which can enhance your overall sense of identity and stability.
Why These Benefits Matter
The benefits of naturalization go beyond legal status; they deeply impact your quality of life and future prospects. Once becoming a naturalized citizen, you no longer have to jump through the many immigration hoops to maintain your legal status. Voting gives you a voice in democracy, federal jobs and grants open career and educational opportunities, and a U.S. passport eases international travel. Protection from deportation and the ability to sponsor family members offer security and unity. Access to public benefits and social security provide financial safety nets, while jury duty participation integrates you into the civic fabric of the nation. Ultimately, the sense of belonging and security that comes with citizenship is invaluable.
Call Us Today: We Can Help You on Your Journey to
Citizenship
Considering these numerous advantages, the journey to U.S. citizenship is a worthy pursuit. If you’re ready to embark on this path, contact a knowledgeable immigration lawyer at the Jarbath Peña Law Group. We can guide you through the process, ensuring all requirements are met and helping you achieve your goal of becoming a naturalized U.S. citizen.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does the naturalization process take?
The process typically takes 6 to 12 months, depending on individual circumstances and the backlog at USCIS.
2. What are the basic requirements for naturalization?
You must be at least 18 years old, a permanent resident for at least 5 years (or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen), have good moral character, pass English and civics tests, and reside continuously in the U.S. for a specific period of time. The period of time you must have resided in the country varies depending on your LPR status. Consult your attorney.
3. Can I travel abroad during the naturalization process?
Yes, but you must maintain continuous residence in the U.S. and avoid extended trips that may disrupt this requirement.
4. What happens if my application is denied?
You can appeal the decision or reapply, addressing the reasons for the denial. Our seasoned immigration lawyer can help improve your chances of success.
5. How much does it cost to become a U.S. citizen?
The application fee for naturalization is $725, which includes the biometric services fee.
Embrace the opportunity to become a naturalized U.S. citizen and unlock the full potential of your American dream. Contact us today and start your journey towards a brighter future.
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