If you are a lawful permanent resident of the United States, you may be eligible to apply for Citizenship. Becoming a U.S. Citizen comes with many benefits, including the ability to vote in federal elections, as well as increased protection from deportation.
People who gained lawful permanent residence through marriage are eligible to apply for citizenship when they have been a permanent resident for three years. All other permanent residents are eligible to apply for citizenship when they have been a permanent resident for five years.
Most people who apply for citizenship will have to pass a civics exam, where an immigration officer asks questions about U.S. history and government. There are 100 questions total on the exam. The immigration officer chooses 10 questions to ask the applicant, and the applicant has to respond correctly to six of the questions. The immigration officer will also ask the applicant to read one of the questions out loud and to write one of the questions after the officer reads it out loud. All of this is done in English.
Nonetheless, there are certain exceptions for applicants over 50 years old who have been residents of the U.S. for many years. Applicants who qualify for one of these exceptions still have to take the civics exam but can do so in their native language. Finally, individuals with disabilities or other medical conditions that impair their ability to take the civics exam can apply for an exemption.
If you are a lawful permanent resident and are interested in applying for U.S. Citizenship, please contact us!
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