Naturalization is the process whereby a lawful permanent resident who has resided in the U.S. for five (5) or three (3) years in the case of marriage to a U.S. citizen, applies for citizenship.

Many legal residents have decided not to apply for citizenship even though they are eligible. Those permanent residents who have not yet applied for citizenship even though eligible, should carefully consider that in today’s world, loss of their permanent residency and removal from the U.S. is much easier and more likely to occur than ever before. Therefore, if you are a permanent resident, you should consult with a competent immigration lawyer to discuss your individual case in order to determine if you are eligible.

In addition to the residency requirements, there is also the requirement that a resident seeking to become a U.S. citizen must demonstrate good moral character. In the case of a resident immigrant with prior criminal conviction(s), establishing good moral character can be difficult. Our law office provides legal analysis and services for those lawful permanent residents seeking post conviction relief. We file motions in the criminal courts to vacate, modify, or expunge those prior conviction(s) so they no longer can be used by the immigration service to deny naturalization on lack of good moral character grounds.