![](https://djn2oq6v2lacp.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/travel-9611.jpg)
The passport of the US is one of the most profitable in the world. There are a lot of pluses of U.S. citizenship.
However, the length of the procedure – obtaining US naturalization can require from several months to one or several years.
Grounds for legalization in America
A passport of a US citizen can be obtained with the next grounds:
- Acquisition of the identity based on the birth principle.
- Upon naturalization. The passport is issued to people who have been living in the US on official grounds for more than 5 years ( or 3 years if one has a marriage to an American).
- Investment. Investors who have invested money in the country’s economy for a particular amount are issued a two-year permanent residency. After five years a person can request a passport application.
- When serving in the US Army, a person can count on obtaining citizenship in a year. Payment of state duties is not required. If the service took place in a combat zone, then an American passport is issued immediately.
1. Submit the N-400 blank
The naturalization procedure for immigrants begins with the submission of a blank N-400 which is one of the most extensive and thorough forms in the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
2. Get your supporting documentation ready
While completing N-400, it is advisable to have extra documents as mentioned below:
Photos
2 images must be in the size of 51 x 51 mm, with a fully open face, they must be carried with you when submitting documents. Learn more here about the requirements.
Green card
The first and most crucial report to add to N-400 is a permanent residence permit with a valid expiration date. In case the green card’s validity period is coming to an end, use Form I-90 “Application for Permanent Resident Card Replacement” to update it.
Marriage documents
Candidates who have been or are now married are obligated to attach the necessary documentation:
- registration of marital relationship;
- death registration of the former partner in case this is your situation;
- proof of the dissolution of prior marriages.
Name change documentation
Candidates who have changed their names have to provide one of the following:
- a marriage license;
- court decision on divorce;
- any court-issued records that reflect the legal renaming.
Registration for military service
Male applicants must provide authorization confirmation for military service. All residents of the US, aged 18-26 years, have to sign up with the Selective Service within 30 days after their 18th birthday.
![](https://djn2oq6v2lacp.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/travel-9621.jpg)
3. Fees and duties
All fees that an applicant for citizen status will be required to pay are usually divided into two categories:
- state duties. The actual registration cost is $640 and $85 for biometric facilities. Those who are aged 75 and more, and military, are free from biometric payment;
- the cost of paperwork. Immigration lawyers can charge $500-2500 for their services.
You can submit governmental charges by paper check, money transfer, or bank card. Using a bank card to proceed with payment will require you to fill extra form G-1450.
American legislation allows you to remain in the country on permanent terms without getting a passport. However, staying under the protection of the state is much safer and more practical.
Photo credit: 1-2) Global Residence Index.
- Wells Fargo Shares Economic Impact From Open For Business Fund
- Harlem Rallies For Kamala Harris: A Historic Gathering Of Black Women Leaders
- In Conversation With Ketanji Brown Jackson At The Apollo Theater In Harlem
- Chancellor David C. Banks Appoints Simone Hawkins As Deputy Chancellor For Early Education
- Vibrant Summer Styles Are Making A Comeback 2024
Become a Harlem Insider!
By submitting this form, you are consenting to receive marketing emails from: Harlem World Magazine, 2521 1/2 west 42nd street, Los Angeles, CA, 90008, https://www.harlemworldmagazine.com. You can revoke your consent to receive emails at any time by using the SafeUnsubscribe® link, found at the bottom of every email. Emails are serviced by Constant Contact