Dispelling Myths About Citizenship

Becoming a citizen of the United States is an important milestone in the life of any foreign national living or working in the country. As an immigrant, obtaining U.S. citizenship affords you similar rights, federal benefits, and other privileges that are exclusive to U.S. citizens only. However, there are lots of collective popular views and false assumptions surrounding the U.S. citizenship or naturalization process. Therefore, getting proper guidance from an experienced Oklahoma immigration attorney is crucial to avoid unnecessary stress or costly mistakes.

At Military Law Group, I have the experience, diligence, and resources to assist and guide clients in immigration-related matters, including citizenship and naturalization. I’m available to discuss your unique situation and enlighten you about the citizenship application process. Also, I can guide you through the application process from start to finish and help you make informed decisions. Military Law Group is proud to serve clients in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and throughout the Tulsa metro area.

Common Myths About Citizenship

There are several popular opinions and misconceptions out there surrounding citizenship and naturalization. Due to this, Oklahoma immigration law attorneys must enlighten clients about the entire citizenship process, the benefits, and how to become eligible. Here are some of the most common myths about citizenship and what makes them false:

Myth #1: Citizenship Is No Different than Permanent Residency.

Even to a lawful permanent resident, becoming a U.S. citizen offers several benefits. You will become entitled to the same rights, federal benefits, and other privileges that are exclusive to U.S. citizens. This includes eligibility to vote, hold federal jobs, or avoid deportation. Also, you will receive a U.S. passport issued by the U.S. Department of State.

Myth #2: Being Married to A U.S. Citizen Automatically Makes Me a Citizen.

This is not true. Being married to a U.S. citizen doesn’t make you eligible for U.S. citizenship straightaway. However, you may be eligible for lawful permanent residency (green card). Also, if you remain married and continue living with your U.S. citizen spouse for three years, you may become eligible to apply for U.S. citizenship.

Myth #3: “Continuous Residence” and “Physical Presence” Are the Same Thing.

When applying for citizenship, applicants may be required to show continuous residence or physical presence. Continuous residence means that the applicant has maintained residence within the United States for the required period of time. Conversely, physical presence means that the applicant has been physically present within the United States for a specified period of time – usually thirty months – over the previous five years.

Myth #4: If Your Citizenship Application Is Denied, There Is Nothing You Can Do.

This is a mistaken belief. If your citizenship application is denied, you have a few options. These include:

• Appealing the denial of your naturalization by filing Form N-336, Request for a Hearing on a Decision in Naturalization Proceedings

• Filing a new naturalization application

• Filing a Motion to Reopen

Myth #5: If My Children Are U.S. Citizens, I Won’t Get Deported.

In most situations, any child born in the United States automatically becomes a U.S. citizen. However, your citizenship status may be different even when you are the child’s parent. If you are an undocumented immigrant who is not able to obtain citizenship while in the country, you may face possible deportation. When your child becomes of legal age, they may choose to sponsor you (the parent) to become a permanent resident.

Myth #6: Having a Criminal Conviction Disqualifies Me for Citizenship.

Having a criminal conviction can make it difficult for you to become a U.S. citizen. However, it doesn’t completely disqualify you – unless you were convicted of murder or an aggravated felony. The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) often allows individuals with previous criminal convictions to apply for citizenship. Once you submit your application, a USCIS officer will weigh the severity and seriousness of your offenses against your “good moral character.”

Myth #7: Stepchildren Qualify as Children for The Purposes of Deriving Citizenship.

This is not true. A stepchild may not be eligible for citizenship through their U.S. citizen stepparent unless the stepchild has been legally adopted by the stepparent. Likewise, the adoption must meet certain requirements.

Let Military Law Group Help

Applying for citizenship involves a lot of complex processes. Due to the frequently changing U.S. immigration laws, having proper guidance when filing your citizenship application is crucial to ensure a smooth and successful application. An experienced immigration attorney can enlighten you about your possible legal options and help you make informed decisions.

At Military Law Group, I have devoted my career to offering outstanding legal services and guiding clients through the complicated procedures involved in the citizenship application. As your legal counsel, I evaluate your unique circumstances and explore your possible legal options. Also, I will determine your eligibility, help you prepare a solid application, and navigate the naturalization process with you.

Furthermore, I will help file your application, submit the required documentation and supporting documents, and prepare you for the interview. Even if your application was denied, I can help appeal the denial and continue fighting on your behalf to protect your best interests. I will dedicate every resource at my disposal to ensure that your citizenship application is approved.

Contact my firm – Military Law Group – today to schedule a one-on-one consultation with a knowledgeable immigration attorney. I can offer you the experienced legal counsel and reliable advocacy you need to navigate key decisions in your citizenship application. My firm proudly serves clients in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and throughout the Tulsa metro area.