Are you planning on becoming a United States citizen? If so, congratulations on your decision! Our great nation was built by immigrants who were seeking to build a better life for themselves and their families. To this day, immigrants continue to strengthen our country by starting businesses in the U.S. and contributing to our culture and our diverse communities. When a Green Card holder becomes naturalized, it means they become a U.S. citizen. Such individuals assume all of the responsibilities of a U.S. citizen and agree to support the Constitution, our state and federal laws, and the United States itself. Citizenship also means the right to vote in an election and the responsibility to pay taxes. Benefits of U.S. citizenship include:
- The right to vote.
- Opportunity to bring family to the U.S.
- Children born abroad can apply for citizenship.
- Travel with a United States passport.
- Eligibility for a federal job.
- Eligibility to be an elected official.
- No more threat of deportation.
In order to become a U.S. citizen, generally Green Card holders need to pass an English and civics test. Under U.S. immigration law, applicants must be able to demonstrate the ability to read, write and speak the English language. They must also understand the fundamentals of U.S. history and the way our government works. However, some exceptions apply. For those who qualify, there are exceptions to the English and civics naturalization requirements. You may qualify for an exception if the following is true:
- You are at least 50-years-of-age and have been a Green Card holder for at 20 or more years.
- When you applied for naturalization, you were 55 or older and had been a Green Card holder for at least 15 years.
- You have a physical or mental impairment that makes you unable to comply with the English or civics requirement.
To learn more about the exceptions for the English and civics requirements, contact The Zendeh Del Law Firm, PLLC to speak with a Plano immigration lawyer. We’d be glad to answer your questions and help you reach your immigration goals.
