I Just Got Married. How Long Must I Wait to Get U.S. Citizenship?

First of all, congratulations on your marriage. This is an exciting step to take for your future. Now to address the question of “how long must I wait to get U.S. citizenship?”. There are many laws put into place and specific steps, documents, and timeframes to becoming a U.S. Citizen. At Arvanitakis Law Group, we are experienced in immigration matters in the United States that include Fiancé Visas, Naturalization for U.S. Citizenship, and green card status.

U.S. Citizenship Requirements

In the United States, you can apply for U.S. Citizenship or naturalization through marriage with some requirements. There are several steps to take, and this can be a time consuming and very confusing process. We recommend using an experienced attorney to represent you to receive the desired outcome and results.

Here are some of the requirements necessary to become a U.S. Citizen:

• You are eligible for a green card if you are married to a U.S. citizen
• Once you receive a green card for a certain number of years, you can be eligible for U.S. citizenship
• Green card holder or permanent resident for the past three years
• Being married to an American citizen
• Lived in the United States continuously for the entire three year time
• You are 18 years old or older
• You can pass the English test and U.S. history and government test
• You are a person of good moral character

Possible Issues

During the time that you are applying for U.S. Citizenship, there are a few conditions that will prevent you from moving forward with your goal.

• If you stop living together or the marriage breaks up
• If you get divorced
• If the marriage ends due to the death of the U.S. spouse

Filing for Naturalization

In the United States, you can apply for U.S. Citizenship or naturalization through an immigration attorney without getting married. Becoming a citizen allows you to vote, access to U.S. jobs and benefits, and the ability to hold a public office.

There are the filing requirements:

Age

At least 18 years old

Residency

Must be a legal permanent resident and have a 1-551 Alien Registration Card

Residence and Physical Presence

Before applying, must be physically in the U.S. for at least 30 months of the consecutive previous five years. There are other conditions involved here that an attorney can discuss with you.

Good Moral Character

Must show good moral character during the five years prior to application or other time frames depending on situations. Murder and aggravated felony convictions are a permanent obstacle to naturalization,

Constitution

Must declare willingness to support and defend the U.S. and the Constitution by taking the oath of allegiance.

Language

Must be able to speak, write, read, and understand English words in ordinary use. There are some exceptions.

U.S. Government and History

Demonstrate knowledge of the fundamentals of U.S. history and certain principles of the U.S. government. There are some exceptions.

How to Proceed

If you need an experienced immigration attorney in Clearwater, give Arvanitakis Law Group a call at 727-600-5858 to set up a consultation. We can discuss the overall process, specific requirements, forms to use, timeframes involved, and how to achieve your goal of becoming a U.S. Citizen.