I’ve had a Green Card for Years. Why Should I Apply for U.S. Citizenship?
The Department of Homeland Security estimates that there are over 2 million people in the U.S. who have green cards and are eligible to apply for U.S. citizenship. If you are one of these individuals, here are some reasons to consider taking this step now:
Who is Eligible: You are potentially eligible to apply for U.S. citizenship if you have had a green card for five years (or if you are married to and living with a U.S. citizen and have had a green card for three years). The application can be filed up to 90 days in advance of meeting the 3/5 year requirement.
8 Reasons to Apply for U.S. Citizenship Now
Stability and Security
Acquiring US citizenship is the best way to ensure that you can live and work in the United States without fear of deportation.
Voting Rights
U.S. citizens have the right to vote in local, state, and national elections. Naturalized citizens can also run for many public office positions. When you vote, you can make a difference in the democratic process and influence decisions that affect your community and future generations.
Travel Freedom
With a U.S. passport, you can travel to over 100 countries visa-free or with visa-on-arrival access. If you plan to reside outside the U.S. for an extended period of time, you could be at risk of losing your green card; whereas if you are a U.S. citizen, your passport would not be revoked simply for living in another country.
Sponsoring Family Members
As a U.S. citizen, you can sponsor your spouse, parents, children, and siblings for green cards. Although there are wait times for siblings of U.S. citizens, there are no wait times for spouses, unmarried children under 21, and parents of U.S. citizens. As a green card holder, you are not eligible to sponsor your parents.
Economic Opportunities
U.S. citizenship can open doors to job opportunities that require or give preference to U.S. citizens. Additionally, it can make it easier to start your own business, access financial services, and benefit from economic programs.
Educational Benefits
U.S. citizens may have access to educational opportunities, including scholarships and grants that may not be available to non-citizens.
Expansion of Dual Citizenship
Contrary to popular belief, U.S. law recognizes the concept of “dual nationality” – so you will not necessarily lose your current citizenship(s) by becoming a U.S. citizen. Some countries will not allow you to maintain your citizenship if you become a U.S. citizen, but many countries that formerly prohibited dual nationality have abolished or substantially relaxed their prohibitions.
No More Renewal Fees and Say Good-bye to Immigration
When a person has a green card, that card must be renewed every 10 years by filing an application and filing fee with the immigration service. Once a person has U.S. citizenship, there is no obligation to renew that status. In addition, once you have U.S. citizenship, you should never have to deal with the immigration service again.
How to Get Started
If you are considering applying to become a U.S. citizen, and if you believe you meet the eligibility requirements listed above, we would be happy to have a consultation with you to discuss any questions you might have about the process. Please email info@cmlseattle.com to schedule.