Naturalization & Citizenship Attorneys in Skokie

Helping Our Clients Achieve Their American Dreams

People born in the United States acquire several legal rights and privileges that are not granted to people in many other countries around the world. Many foreign nationals dream of obtaining United States citizenship. Lawful permanent residents of the United States often choose to formalize their relationship to the United States. They are motivated by loyalty and love of their adopted country, as well as an interest in the benefits they will receive as citizens.

Individuals who were not born in the United States can obtain citizenship through the process known as naturalization. While the process may seem straightforward, it is actually a very complex legal matter that should always be handled by an immigration attorney.

At Gambacorta Law, our citizenship and naturalization attorneys in Skokie deliver client-focused counsel and exceptional representation to lawful permanent residents seeking citizenship through the naturalization process.

To discuss your unique case with our Skokie citizenship lawyer, please call (847) 443-9303 or contact us online.

Eligibility for Naturalization

Before you can apply, you must meet strict requirements. An application for naturalization will automatically be denied if you do not meet the proper requirements.

To become a citizen through naturalization, you must:

• Be at least 18 years or older when you file
• Be a permanent resident (green card holder) for a minimum of five years
• Be able to prove that you have lived for at least three months in the state or a specified USCIS district
• Be able to prove that you have had continuous residency in the U.S. for a minimum of five years or at least 30 months of those five years
• Be able to read, speak, and write basic English
• Pass a U.S. government and history test
• Have a proven history of good moral character
• Demonstrate that you understand, relate, and will adhere to the principles stated in the U.S. Constitution

How to Obtain Citizenship

If you meet the requirements you will have to complete each step of the naturalization process to obtain citizenship in the U.S..

The standard naturalization process includes:

• Completing the N-400 Application for Naturalization.
• Completing all required documentation (a copy of your green card, two identical colored photos, and a check or money order payable to the DHS)
• Mailing your N-400 application, documentation, and filing fee
• Getting fingerprinted
• Attending an interview
• Completing citizenship testing
• Attending the citizenship ceremony

Need a trusted naturalization lawyer in Skokie? Contact us online or call (847) 443-9303 today for expert guidance on your citizenship process!

What is on the U.S. Citizenship Test?

Even if you meet the eligibility requirements, you could be denied for naturalization because there are a series of oral and written tests that an individual must pass to be approved. Adequate preparation is critical for success on these tests, and understanding the format can greatly enhance your ability to perform well. Our attorneys at Gambacorta Law provide resources and practice materials to help you become thoroughly familiar with the test content.

You will have to take a:

• Speaking test: You must prove your ability to speak fluent English and understand what others are saying to you in English. The USCIS Officer will determine how well you speak during your interview process.
• Reading test: During your test, you will be asked to read one out of three sentences, in English, aloud to demonstrate that you can read English.
• Writing test: Next, you must write one out of three sentences correctly in English. The USCIS Officer will review the sentences to determine whether you understand the English language.
• Civics test: This is by far the most difficult and stressful test for those looking to naturalize. There are 100 questions on the civics test. During the initial interview, you will be asked up to 10 questions from that list, and you must answer six out of the 10 correctly to pass.

You have two chances to take the English and civics examinations. If you fail, you will be retested on the portion that you failed between 60 and 90 days after the initial interview. Taking advantage of the preparation guidance offered by our team can increase your chances of passing these tests significantly.

• What Are the Questions on the U.S. Citizenship Test?
• On What Grounds Can My U.S. Citizenship Application Be Denied?

Do You Get Citizenship if You Serve in the Military?

If you are a member of the U.S. Armed Forces, you may be eligible to apply for citizenship via the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). This includes the Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marine Corps, Navy, and certain Reserve servicemembers. Citizenship may also be available to those who were discharged recently.

Military service reflects a deep commitment to the country, and the U.S. Government acknowledges this through special provisions that facilitate the naturalization process for active-duty members and their families. Understanding these unique avenues can help military personnel expedite their citizenship journey while ensuring their families also benefit.

For those who are actively serving and have families, there are additional benefits to becoming a citizen: 

• No filing fees
• A dedicated point-of-contact who will assist you with the application process
• If you are deployed abroad for a year, your spouse is eligible for expedited naturalization.
• If you are on active duty and die while serving, you are awarded posthumous citizenship, and surviving family members who are seeking immigration benefits receive special consideration.

Need a citizenship attorney? Call (847) 443-9303 or contact us online today for expert assistance with your naturalization process!

How Can a Naturalization Lawyer Help?

Navigating the naturalization process can be overwhelming and, at times, confusing. This is where the expertise of a naturalization attorney comes into play. Our Skokie-based naturalization attorneys understand the nuances of U.S. immigration laws and can provide the guidance and support needed to ensure a smooth transition towards becoming a U.S. citizen. They can explain complex legal terminologies, help fill out necessary paperwork correctly, prepare you for the citizenship test, and even accompany you to the citizenship interview.

With these comprehensive services, we ensure that our clients receive extensive support throughout their entire naturalization journey, from pre-application assessments to post-citizenship guidance, helping to remove barriers and create a clear, stress-free path to citizenship.

Here's a detailed list of the services our naturalization attorneys provide to their clients: 

• Guidance on Citizenship Eligibility: A Skokie citizenship lawyer from our firm will conduct a thorough assessment of your situation to ascertain your eligibility for U.S. citizenship.
• Filing Assistance: They will assist in filling out the necessary forms and applications, ensuring accuracy to prevent any potential hindrances in the process.
• Document Review: Our attorneys will meticulously review all necessary documents and make sure they're submitted to the appropriate authorities in a timely manner.
• Preparation for Citizenship Test: They offer coaching and test materials to help you prepare for the U.S. citizenship test.
• Interview Preparation: Our attorneys provide guidance on the interview process, including potential questions and how to respond.
• Legal Representation: If necessary, our attorneys can represent you in court or accompany you to any appointments with immigration officials. There are many benefits to having a lawyer at your citizenship interview.
• Appeal Support: In case of a denied application, our attorneys can help file an appeal and guide you through the further process.

Local Support for Skokie Applicants

Locating the right support in Skokie can significantly affect the ease of your citizenship process. Our office is readily accessible to provide face-to-face consultations, ensuring personalized advice that considers Skokie's unique legal and cultural environment. Additionally, we work closely with local USCIS officers to stay updated on any procedural changes that might impact your application.

Understanding the Skokie community dynamics—like diverse cultural backgrounds—equips us to better empathize with and address your specific needs. From language barriers to procedural fears, we tackle these challenges together, enhancing the trust between our clients and legal team.

Documented Success Stories from Skokie

Many of our clients have successfully navigated the naturalization process in Skokie thanks to our structured approach and personalized service. We prioritize understanding each client’s unique life story, which allows us to craft tailored legal strategies aligned with their citizenship goals. This dedication results in a smoother, less stressful process, as seen in countless positive client experiences and outcomes.

Our team brings in-depth knowledge of local immigration nuances, leveraging long-standing working relationships with Skokie’s USCIS officers to facilitate essential communications and paperwork. This local expertise is invaluable in addressing any specific issues that could arise in Skokie’s diverse environment, ensuring no detail is overlooked.

At Gambacorta Law, our expert citizenship lawyer is ready to provide personalized legal guidance. Contact us through our online form or call (847) 443-9303 to secure your consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Common Challenges Faced During the Naturalization Process?

The naturalization process can be challenging with complex documentation and strict requirements. Common hurdles include residency consistency and test anxiety. A naturalization attorney in Skokie at Gambacorta Law can provide guidance, ensure accurate documentation, and prepare you for every step, including the citizenship test.

How Long Does the Naturalization Process Take?

On average, the naturalization process can take between 8 to 14 months. However, in Skokie, timing can vary based on case complexity and the local USCIS office's workload. By promptly responding to requests for information and documentation, and scheduling necessary appointments like biometrics in a timely manner, applicants can potentially streamline their timelines. For experienced guidance and to prevent delays in your application, be sure to work with a skilled Skokie citizenship attorney at our firm right away.

How Can I Prepare for the Citizenship Test?

Preparation for the citizenship test is essential to avoid delays or rejections. Resources like USCIS study materials and practice tests are invaluable. Furthermore, participating in study groups or language classes, especially if you're not proficient in English, can enhance your readiness. Our legal team at Gambacorta Law offers extensive resources and guidance tailored to ensure your success. Connect with a qualified citizenship attorney as soon as possile.

If you are interested in becoming a U.S. citizen, Gambacorta Law can help. Call (847) 443-9303 now to request an initial consultation with our naturalization attorneys in Skokie.