If you make the decision to become a U.S. citizen, you should know the process can be long, but the pay off at the end is very much worth it. Throughout the process, you will have many documents you must fill out and provide to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services office in Georgia, along with other things you must due to complete your citizenship application. It is essential to follow all instructions the agency gives you.
Because the process can be confusing at times, it helps to familiarize yourself with the process beforehand. Here are five facts you should know.
- You will gain rights
Living in the United States affords you many rights, but becoming a citizen will extend those rights. One example is that you will gain the right to vote.
- You must take a test
Part of the process involves taking the naturalization test. This test covers information about U.S. history and the government along with English language questions. You will get study materials to use to prepare for the test.
- Know your citizenship status
You could have been born a U.S. citizen if your parents or one of your parents was a U.S. citizen at your time of birth. Also, if you were born in the U.S., then you are a citizen. Make sure you are not already a citizen before starting the naturalization process.
- You may qualify for special provisions
If you are in the military or a dependent of a member of the military, you may be able to use a different process to become a citizen. Make sure you alert the USCIS to your status.
- You can be a citizen of two nations
It is possible to be a citizen of the United States and retain citizenship in another country. This is a special situation, though, so make sure to mention it when applying to receive further instructions.
