 Clients
cannot speak highly enough of Bernie
Wolfsdorf. He is known as
one of the hardest-working
immigration lawyers around.
—Chambers
USA America’s Leading Lawyers
for Business 2008 |
Naturalization
Naturalization is the process by
which a permanent resident acquires
U.S. citizenship. The general requirements
are:
(1) five years continuous residence
(three years if married to a US citizen),
of which at least half the time must
be spent physically in the United
States;
(2) residence of 90 days in a particular
USCIS District prior to filing;
(3) ability to read, write, and speak
English;
(4) knowledge and understanding of
U.S. history and government;
(5) good moral character; and
(6) support for the principles of
the U.S. Constitution.
The continuous residence, physical
presence and good moral character
requirements are the most common pitfalls
for applicants. If you are interested
in applying for naturalization, we
invite you to complete and return
the attached questionnaire so that
we can assess your eligibility.
Derivative Citizenship
The Immigration and Nationality Act
enables a child born outside the U.S.
to derive or claim U.S. citizenship
through his/her parent’s birth
or naturalization. The Child Citizenship
Act of 2000 has made the process easier
for both natural-born and adopted
children of U.S. citizens. To derive
citizenship,\:
(1) at least one parent must be a
US citizen, whether by birth or by
naturalization;
(2) the child must be under 18; and
(3) the child must be living in the
U.S. in the custody of the citizen
parent and be a permanent resident.
Children who meet these requirements
can apply for a U.S. passport and/or
Certificate of Citizenship.
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