Tampa Citizenship Lawyer
20+ Years of Experience Representing Clients in Immigration Law
Children born in the United States or one of its territories are automatically granted citizenship, and this is also true for children born to U.S. citizens. However, people born in other countries must go through the immigration system in order to become full citizens. Grace Gardiner at Gardiner Immigration P.A. is an experienced citizenship lawyer serving Tampa, Plantation, Fort Lauderdale, and other communities in South Florida, and she can help you begin this often daunting process.
If you need help with a citizenship issue, call (813) 750-0779 for a consultation with our Tampa immigration attorney.
Becoming a U.S. Citizen Through Naturalization
When an individual is born outside of the United States, they can pursue citizenship through the process called naturalization. While everyone who is born on U.S. soil is considered a full citizen and automatically given these rights and privileges, those who immigrate to the United States must meet certain requirements before they receive the benefits of citizenship.
In order to become a naturalized U.S. citizen, you will need to meet the following conditions:
- You have a current and valid green card, meaning that you are a lawful permanent resident.
- You have had your green card for 5 years at minimum.
- Your green card was legally obtained.
- You have continuously lived in the United States for the last 5 years, and you were physically present here for at least 30 months during that time.
- You are 18 years of age or older.
- You support the U.S. Constitution, know the basics of U.S. history, and have strong moral character.
- You can read, write, and speak basic English.
- You have passed several written and oral tests administered during the naturalization process.
- You submit the right forms and documents, along with biometrics such as fingerprints.
We know that the citizenship process can be confusing, and it’s normal to have many questions about the forms and requirements. When in doubt, you can rely on Gardiner Immigration. We work hard to answer your questions, keep you informed, and provide guidance throughout the process of applying for U.S. citizenship.
Once you become a U.S. citizen, you will receive the following benefits:
- The right to vote in local, state, and national elections
- Lower taxes
- Eligibility for scholarships to help pay for higher education
- Eligibility for certain government grants
Get the Legal Assistance You Need for Full Citizenship
Our firm is dedicated to assisting clients throughout the immigration process. We will prepare all necessary paperwork and file for your citizenship, and we can advise you of any issues that will need to be addressed prior to filing. Taking care of these details well in advance allows us to ensure that your application for citizenship will be processed correctly and quickly.
If you need an experienced citizenship lawyer in Plantation or Tampa, call (813) 750-0779 for personalized legal services to meet your needs.