The Advantages of Becoming a US Citizen

Now more than ever, if you are a legal permanent resident (LPR) of the United States and qualify for US citizenship, you should become a US citizen.

The aftermath of the 11th of September, 2001, has created much uncertainty regarding immigration law. Congress is regularly passing harsh, new immigration laws. You can protect yourself from this uncertainty by becoming a US citizen.

To be eligible to apply for US citizenship, you must demonstrate to the US government that:

– you have been an LPR for at least five (5) years (3 years if you are married to a US citizen);

– you have been physically present for thirty (30) of sixty (60) months (18 of 36 months if married to a US citizen);

– you are a person of good moral character;

– you have not been convicted of an aggravated felony or other serious crime;

– can read, write and speak the English language; and

– you can pass a US history and civics exam.

The important advantages of being a US citizen are: a.) there is not time limit a US citizen may reside outside of the United States, unlike an LPR who must not live outside of the US for more than six (6) months in a calendar year; b.) if you are convicted of a crime after becoming a United States citizen, you cannot be deported after serving your sentence; while if you are a legal permanent resident, you may be subject to deportation; c.) tax considerations may be more favorable for US citizens, especially relating to inheritance; d.) you can apply for and work in jobs that require high security clearance that are not normally offered to LPRs; e.) easier processing at US airports after returning from a trip as US citizens generally do not have the same level of scrutiny and inquiry applied to them; and f.) the comfort and security that US citizens do not have to worry about what new laws the government may pass affecting non-citizens.

The attorneys at Pauly P.A. have over fifteen (15) years in immigration law and US citizenship applications. We can prepare the application, file it and attend the interview with you. If you are not sure whether you qualify to become a US citizen, call us to schedule a consultation.