For residents of Georgia who are looking for a way to become permanent citizens of the United States, the process can sometimes take years to finish. One way people become citizens is through the naturalization process, which was established in the Immigration and Nationality Act by Congress and grants citizenship to any foreign national or citizen after they fulfill the requirements set up in the law.
According to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services, there are several things required before a person qualify for naturalization. They include the following:
- Been a permanent resident of the United States for five years or longer and meet all eligibility requirements for citizenship
- Been a permanent resident of the United States for three years or more and file as a spouse of a United States citizen, along with meeting the eligibility requirements for citizenship
- Served in the United States armed forces and met the eligibility requirements for citizenship
- Be a child who was born outside the United States or who is currently residing outside of the country whose parents are United States citizens
In all the above situations, the requirements for citizenship must be met. There are specific requirements for naturalization for spouses, military naturalization and citizenship through parents. Each applicant must also take and pass a naturalization test which includes sections on civics, United States history and English.
Becoming a United States citizen can be a long and complicated process and there are many ways to do it. If you are unsure which way is right for you, it may be a good idea to talk to an immigration lawyer, so you do not make any mistakes or apply in the wrong area.
This is for educational purposes and should not be interpreted as legal advice.
