Achieving U.S. Citizenship through Naturalization is the ultimate goal for many immigrants and a profound, life-changing milestone. It grants the right to vote, greater protection against deportation, and the ability to sponsor more family members. At Karen Torres Law, we take immense pride in guiding eligible Lawful Permanent Residents (Green Card holders) through the final step of the immigration journey. We ensure your N-400 Application for Naturalization is meticulously prepared, addressing any complexities like travel history, minor criminal records, or eligibility issues to ensure a smooth transition to citizenship.
Call us now at (713) 576-0400 to get started with a free, confidential review of your family’s case.
Why Choose Karen Torres Law for Naturalization?
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Complex Case Clearance: We specialize in reviewing and mitigating potential barriers to citizenship, such as issues related to good moral character, continuous residence, or selective service registration.
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Thorough Preparation: We provide comprehensive preparation for the Naturalization Interview and the Civics/English exams, boosting your confidence for the final step.
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Eligibility Review: We accurately determine if you qualify under the five-year rule, the three-year rule (for those married to U.S. citizens), or through military service.
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Responsive Support: From the initial application to the Oath Ceremony, we provide clear, consistent communication so you always know the status of your case.
Naturalization & Citizenship Services We Provide
We offer full-service legal support for all pathways to U.S. Citizenship:
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N-400 Application Filing: Complete preparation and submission of the Application for Naturalization.
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Interview & Exam Preparation: One-on-one coaching for the English and Civics tests and preparing for the officer’s questions about the N-400 application.
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Derivative/Acquired Citizenship: Assisting children of U.S. citizens who may already be citizens without realizing it (N-600 Application).
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Responding to N-336 Appeals: Filing appeals of a denied Naturalization application.
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Addressing Criminal/Travel Issues: Reviewing travel history and any past minor criminal issues that could impact the “Good Moral Character” requirement.
How We Help You Step by Step
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Eligibility Assessment: We review your Green Card history, travel records, and any potential legal issues to confirm you meet all requirements.
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N-400 Preparation: We meticulously complete the application, ensuring every detail is accurate to avoid an RFE or denial.
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Submission & Fingerprinting: We file your application with USCIS and guide you through the required biometrics appointment.
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Interview Advocacy: We prepare you thoroughly and attend the interview with you to provide legal representation should any unexpected issues arise.
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Oath Ceremony: We celebrate with you as you take the Oath of Allegiance and officially become a U.S. Citizen!
Why Citizenship Matters in Houston
Citizenship is the ultimate form of community integration. In a vibrant city like Houston, newly naturalized citizens gain the power to vote, hold government jobs, travel with greater ease, and sponsor more distant family members. Our firm is proud to facilitate this crucial final step, helping immigrants fully realize their American Dream and contribute to the civic life of our city. If you’re ready to start the process, contact your experienced Houston Naturalization lawyer today.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What are the primary eligibility requirements for Naturalization? Generally, you must be at least 18 years old, be a Lawful Permanent Resident (Green Card holder) for a required period (usually 5 years, or 3 years if married to a U.S. Citizen), show continuous residence and physical presence, and demonstrate good moral character.
- What does “continuous residence” mean, and why is it important? Continuous residence means maintaining the U.S. as your place of dwelling for the required period. Any single absence from the U.S. for 6 months or more can break continuity, jeopardizing your eligibility for citizenship.
- If I fail the English or Civics test during the Naturalization interview, what happens? You will have a second chance to take the portion(s) you failed (English, Civics, or both) within 60 to 90 days after the initial interview. If you fail again, your N-400 application will be denied, and you must start over.
- Can minor criminal offenses prevent me from becoming a U.S. Citizen? Any criminal history can affect the “Good Moral Character” requirement. While minor infractions may be waived, certain offenses, especially those within the statutory period, can lead to denial. We review your full record to determine the impact and prepare a defense.
- When can I apply for my U.S. passport after my Naturalization is approved? You must wait until after the Oath of Allegiance Ceremony, where you receive your Certificate of Naturalization. This certificate is the primary proof of citizenship needed to apply for a U.S. passport.
Client Testimonials
“After decades as a Green Card holder, Karen Torres made the final step to citizenship simple and stress-free. Her interview prep was perfect!” – Robert L.
“I had complicated travel issues, but Karen reviewed my case and provided the perfect strategy to prove continuous residence. I am so proud to finally be a U.S. Citizen.” – David S.
“Professional, knowledgeable, and genuinely happy for me at my Oath Ceremony. If you need a Houston attorney for your N-400, choose Karen Torres Law.” – Jessica A.
