Citizenship & Naturalization

For many permanent lawful residents, becoming a citizen of the U.S. is the ultimate goal to aspire for. Becoming a naturalized citizen of the U.S., with all of its accompanying rights and responsibilities, is part of the American dream.

Naturalization is the process a foreign-born individual goes through to become a U.S. citizen. It is different from obtaining a Visa or a “Green Card,” both of which entail different sets of privileges and responsibilities.

This process requires a citizenship application, a test on English proficiency and civics, which tests your knowledge of U.S. politics, government, and history, and taking an oath of allegiance to the United States government. The applicant must demonstrate that they have a good moral character and will remain loyal to the U.S. Constitution.

While there are exceptions, the application process and interviews require basic proficiency in English. Attorney Mr. Lim and our knowledgeable immigration lawyers working in Fremont and San Francisco provide legal assistance in various different languages, so we can help you navigate.

The benefits of citizenship include many things such as the following:

• Political participation: Being able to vote in local, state, and national elections to select your representative
• Ease of travel: No longer have to worry about losing your status of citizenship unlike holding a visa
• Greater access to public benefits: Certain states may have restrictions, but you can gain access to programs and benefits such as Supplemental Security Income
• Being able to apply for green cards for family members and relatives
• Apply for jobs in the federal government

At The Law Offices of Derek Lim, our Fremont naturalization lawyer will sit down with you and review your qualifications for citizenship. We will fill out and submit your citizen application to the proper authorities and help with any issues that arise. If you have a criminal conviction of any kind, we can investigate the circumstances of the crime and evaluate how we can pursue a waiver on your behalf. Contact our law firm to learn more.

From our Fremont office and our San Francisco office in California, we help people with the following naturalization issues: Naturalization based on three years of marriage with a U.S. citizen: If you are a lawful permanent resident who has been living with your U.S. citizen spouse for the past three years, you may qualify for naturalization.

Naturalization with criminal convictions: Depending on the crime you committed, you may be eligible for a waiver to allow you to become a U.S. citizen. Having an experienced immigration attorney on your side when applying for citizenship will increase your chances of success.

We measure success by the many happy returns of our clients. We will work diligently to help you obtain citizenship in the U.S.

Call The Law Offices of Derek Lim at 510-818-0898 or contact us online to schedule an appointment regarding your naturalization. Appointments are available on Saturdays by arrangement. Our immigration lawyers in Fremont and San Francisco speak Cantonese and Mandarin Chinese, Thai, and Laotian.