Chicago Immigration attorney, Illinois.

US Citizenship/Naturalization - Qualifications, Application and Procedures

Naturalization refers to the process where a lawful permanent resident becomes a U.S. citizen. The application is filed with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services at the Service Center with jurisdiction over the applicant’s place of residence. The general requirements are as follows:

• a period of continuous residence and physical presence in the United States;
• residence in a particular USCIS District prior to filing;
• an ability to read, write, and speak English;
• a knowledge and understanding of U.S. history and government;
• good moral character;
• attachment to the principles of the U.S. Constitution; and,
• favorable disposition toward the United States. 

Frequently Asked Questions regarding Citizenship/Naturalization

News and Information on Citizenship 

The Child Citizenship Act - Citizenship for Foreign-Born Children of U.S. Citizens

Under the immigration law, certain children of US citizens may acquire citizenship status without going through a lengthy process. The Child Citizenship Act (CCA) declares that children who are younger than 18 years of age and have at least one parent who is a U.S. citizen whether by birth or naturalization will acquire automatic citizenship. Under the CCA, qualifying children who immigrate to the United States with a U.S. citizen parent automatically acquire U.S. citizenship upon entry; children who live abroad acquire citizenship on approval of an application and the taking of the oath of allegiance.

Click here to view the USCIS Child Citizenship Act of 2000 Fact Sheet.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Child Citizenship Act- CCA.