According to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), there are more than 9 million immigrants in the United States who are eligible to obtain citizenship, but less than 1 million apply.
For this reason, the American Immigration Lawyers Association will donate its time and legal advice during the month of September to help DMV residents start this process.
“Those who are going to be participating are volunteers and the organization that is leading these efforts is a non-profit organization. Our intention is only that people who are eligible to become citizens become citizens and provide them with adequate legal advice,” explained immigration attorney Liana Montecinos.
During the four weekends in September, interested parties will be able to visit one of the locations around the DMV without having to register, to consult their particular case. If everything goes well, at that very moment you can submit your request. Remember, once you are a citizen you can enjoy many benefits.
“Becoming citizens brings them many benefits; one of them is to ask their relatives and bring them to the US. Another is the vote, you can choose who will be your next representative in Congress or in the president of the United States and many health benefits among others”, Montecinos explained.
In the DC metropolitan area, the process can take eight to nine months.
Below are the dates and locations where this service will be available:
- Saturday, September 9: Montgomery County Public Schools
- Saturday, September 16: Carlos Rosario International Public Charter School
- Saturday, September 16: Catholic Charities of DC / Virtual
- Saturday, September 22: Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Arlington
- Saturday, September 30: Glichrist Immigrant Resource Center
The Citizenship and Immigration Service has a program to help low-income people with discounts on procedures, you just have to request it. Visit their website here.
REQUIREMENTS FOR CITIZENSHIP
- Be at least 18 years old when filing the application for Naturalization (form N-400)
- Possess the Green Card for at least 5 years, or 3 years if you are married to a US citizen.
- Proof that you have resided for at least 3 months in the same state or USCIS district in which you are applying
- Demonstrate continuous residence in the United States as a lawful permanent resident for at least 5 years immediately prior to the filing date of Form N-400
- Proof that you have been physically in the United States for at least 30 months in the 5 years immediately preceding the date of filing the N-400
- Have the ability to read, write and speak basic English
- Have a basic knowledge of United States history and government
- Be a person of good moral character
- Demonstrate adherence to the principles and ideals of the United States Constitution
