Legal Question in Immigration Law in California

Green Card Holder's application for Citizenship

I have been a permanent resident in the US for almost 5 years now (DV program) and I want to apply for citizenship. After I become a US citizen I want to get married to a foreigner and bring her here legally, that's why I want to go through this process as fast as possible.

My questions are:

- Can I apply before the 5 years period? (the 5 years will be up in May 2004).

- How long does it usually take to process the reqest for citizenship in this case?

- Will I need legal assistance to make the application?

Thank you.


Asked on 10/23/03, 5:49 pm

4 Answers from Attorneys

Joe Savino The Law Offices of Joseph J. Savino, P.A.

Re: Green Card Holder's application for Citizenship

1. By law, you may file your naturalization application three months early.

2. Process generally takes +/- 1 year.

3. You are not required to have an attorney assist you in the application. Many prefer to rely on the experience and knowledge of legal counsel for assistance. Feel free to visit our website at www.usa-immigrationattorney.com for more info.

Read more
Answered on 10/24/03, 12:42 pm
Linda Allen Law Offices of LInda M Allen

Re: Green Card Holder's application for Citizenship

Thank you for your inquiry. You may apply for your citizenship 90 days before the 5th year expires. As a US citizen, your alien spouse will be eligible to apply for a green card as an immediate relative. The process for naturalization takes approximately one year.

You may wish to hire counsel to assist you in this matter. Our office routinely handles these types of applications. Please feel free to contact me directly at 619.233.0900 if I may be of further assistance.

Sincerely,

Read more
Answered on 10/23/03, 6:04 pm
Christopher M. Brainard, Esq. C. M. Brainard & Associates - (310) 266-4115

Re: Green Card Holder's application for Citizenship

You can apply for your citizenship 90 days before the 5th anniversary of your residence.

The process to get your citizenship can take up to six months. After you would be able to sponsor your spouse.

You may wish to be assisted in this process. Our offices can help you. You can reach Christopher at (310)366-4115.

Sincerely,

Read more
Answered on 10/23/03, 8:46 pm
Reza Bavar PISHVAEE & BAVAR

Re: Green Card Holder's application for Citizenship

You can begin the application process 90 days before 5 years.

The process can take up to a year, but sometimes more if there is a problem with the paper work.

You can begin to prepare an application for a K visa for your fianc� or you can marry her in her home country and then file for a green card for her.

If you decide you want legal assistance, please feel free to contact my office. . . 310-444-3020.

Good Luck.

Read more
Answered on 10/25/03, 1:12 am


Related Questions & Answers

More Immigration Law questions and answers in California