Citizenship
If you meet certain requirements, you may become a U.S. citizen either at birth or after birth. A&E Immigration and Services, LLC are available to help you navigate the path to obtain your citizenship.
To become a citizen at birth, you must:
- Have been born in the United States or certain territories or outlying possessions of the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction of the United States; OR
- had a parent or parents who were citizens at the time of your birth (if you were born abroad) and meet other requirements
To become a citizen after birth, you must:
- Apply for “derived” or “acquired” citizenship through parents or
- Apply for NATURALIZATION.
Why shoud I apply for my Citizenship?
The United States has a long history of welcoming IMMIGRANTS from all parts of the world. Deciding to become a U.S. citizen is one of the most important decisions in an individual’s life. If you decide to apply to become a U.S. citizen, you will be showing your commitment to the United States and your loyalty to its Constitution. In return, you are rewarded with all the rights and privileges that are part of U.S. citizenship.
The Naturalization Test:
Most naturalization applicants are required to take a test on: English and Civics (U.S. history and government)
A&E Immigration and Services, LLC provide resources to help you prepare.
Exceptions & Accommodations
There are exceptions and modifications to the naturalization requirements that are available to those who qualify. USCIS also provides accommodations for individuals with disabilities.
English Language Exceptions
You Are Exempt From The English Language Requirement, But Are Still Required To Take The Civics Test If You Are:
· Age 50 or older at the time of filing for naturalization and have lived as a permanent resident (green card holder) in the United States for 20 years (commonly referred to as the “50/20” exception). OR
· Age 55 or older at the time of filing for naturalization and have lived as a permanent resident in the United States for 15 years (commonly referred to as the “55/15” exception).
Disability Accommodations
Having a big sale, on-site celebrity, or other event? Be sure to announce it so everybody knows and gets excited about it.
Applicants with physical or mental impairments that make it difficult for them to complete the naturalization process, can receive accommodations.
Your Community can help
Many community organizations and social service providers offer citizenship classes and assistance with the naturalization process. Classes are often held in the evenings and on weekends. In many cases, these programs provide additional support and referral services as well.
If you need help with an immigration issue, you can use the services of a licensed immigration attorney or accredited representative of a Board of Immigration Appeals recognized organization. Be sure to review the ¨Legal Assistance¨ section below so you can make the right decision about what kind of legal help you need.
Other resources may be available in your community. See the NALEO Educational Fund's directory of Citizenship Centers or CitizenshipWorks for a selection of service providers in each state.