Obtaining a Green Card through marriage is often the first step toward permanent residency in the United States for many immigrants. However, after obtaining a marriage-based Green Card, individuals may wonder about the process of acquiring U.S. citizenship.
We will explore the requirements, timeline, and steps involved in obtaining citizenship after obtaining a Green Card through marriage. Whether you’re a recent Green Card holder or planning for the future, understanding the pathway to citizenship is essential for achieving your long-term immigration goals.
The Benefits of U.S. Citizenship After Getting Married
After getting a Green Card through marriage, individuals may consider pursuing U.S. citizenship to unlock numerous benefits and opportunities. Here are some of the key benefits of U.S. citizenship after getting married:
- Voting Rights – Voting in federal elections gives American citizens the ability to actively influence the political climate of their nation.
- Travel Freedom – Unlike Green Card holders, U.S. citizens can travel freely outside the United States without the risk of losing their immigration status or facing reentry restrictions.
- Citizenship for Children – U.S. citizens can transmit citizenship to their children born abroad, providing them with the same rights and privileges as natural-born citizens.
- Eligibility for Federal Jobs – Many federal jobs require U.S. citizenship as a prerequisite, opening up additional employment opportunities and career advancement prospects.
- Access to Federal Benefits – Citizens of the United States are entitled to a variety of federal benefits, such as Medicaid, Social Security, and Medicare, which are not available to Green Card holders.
- Protection from Deportation – While Green Card holders may be removed due to certain immigration infractions or criminal convictions, U.S. citizens are afforded greater protection from deportation.
- Dual Citizenship – U.S. citizens have the option to hold dual citizenship with another country, allowing them to maintain ties to their heritage while enjoying the benefits of U.S. citizenship.
Obtaining U.S. citizenship after getting married provides individuals with enhanced rights, protections, and opportunities, solidifying their commitment to their new home country and paving the way for a brighter future for themselves and their families.
What Is the Three-Year Rule?
The “Three-Year Rule” refers to a specific eligibility pathway for obtaining U.S. citizenship through marriage to a U.S. citizen. Under this rule:
- Spouses of U.S. citizens who have been Green Card holders for at least three years are eligible to apply for naturalization (U.S. citizenship) after meeting certain requirements.
- To qualify, the applicant must have been married to and living with the same U.S. citizen spouse for the entire three-year period immediately preceding the filing of the naturalization application.
- Additionally, the applicant must have been physically present in the United States for at least 18 months out of the three years preceding the naturalization application.
- Applicants must also meet other general eligibility criteria for naturalization, including being of good moral character, passing a civics and English language test, and proving an attachment to the principles of the U.S. Constitution.
Overall, the Three-Year Rule provides an expedited pathway to U.S. citizenship for spouses of U.S. citizens who have maintained a bona fide marital relationship and lawful permanent residency for at least three years.
The Path to U.S. Citizenship After Obtaining a Marriage Green Card
After obtaining a marriage-based Green Card, individuals may pursue U.S. citizenship through a process called naturalization. Here are the steps to becoming a U.S. citizen after obtaining a marriage Green Card:
- Meet Eligibility Requirements – Make sure you fulfill the requirements for naturalization, which include being at least eighteen years old, possessing a Green Card for a predetermined amount of time, and exhibiting moral rectitude.
- Residency Requirement – Generally, you must have been a lawful permanent resident for at least five years before applying for naturalization. However, spouses of U.S. citizens may be eligible to apply after three years of residency if they meet certain requirements.
- Prepare Required Documents – Gather necessary documents, including your Green Card, marriage certificate, tax returns, and any other supporting evidence of eligibility.
- Submit Form N-400 – Complete and submit Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Ensure all information is accurate and up-to-date.
- Biometrics Appointment – Make an appointment for biometrics to provide photos, fingerprints, and additional biographical data for background checks.
- Interview and Civics Test – If your application is accepted, you will be scheduled for an interview with a USCIS officer. During the interview, you will be tested on your knowledge of U.S. civics and English language proficiency.
- Oath of Allegiance – If approved, attend a naturalization ceremony where you will take the Oath of Allegiance to the United States, officially becoming a U.S. citizen.
It’s essential to follow all instructions provided by USCIS and attend all required appointments and interviews throughout the naturalization process. Additionally, consult an immigration lawyer or look for advice from reliable people to make sure the application procedure goes smoothly.
Costs for Application for Naturalization
As of 2024, the fees associated with Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, may vary based on individual circumstances. Here is an overview of the typical fees involved:
- Application Fee – The standard application fee for Form N-400 is $760 if you apply on paper. If you apply online, the fee is $710. This fee covers the processing costs associated with the naturalization application.
- Biometrics Fee – In addition to the application fee, applicants may also be required to pay a separate biometrics fee, if applicable. This service covers background checks, including fingerprinting and photographing.
- Fee Waivers – Some individuals may be eligible for a fee waiver if they demonstrate financial hardship. USCIS offers fee waivers for certain applicants who meet specific income guidelines and criteria. To request a fee waiver, applicants must submit Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver, along with their naturalization application.
It’s important to note that USCIS fees are subject to change, so applicants should verify the current fee amounts and payment methods on the USCIS website or by contacting USCIS directly before submitting their application. Additionally, applicants should be cautious of potential scams and only make payments to USCIS through approved methods to avoid fraudulent activity.
U.S. Citizenship After a Marriage Green Card: Final Words
In conclusion, obtaining U.S. citizenship after acquiring a marriage-based Green Card marks the culmination of a significant journey toward permanent residency and integration into American society. Through the naturalization process, individuals solidify their commitment to the United States, enjoying the rights, privileges, and opportunities that come with citizenship.
From the responsibilities of civic engagement to the freedoms of travel and voting, citizenship represents a milestone achievement for immigrants who have built their lives in the United States. By navigating the naturalization process with diligence, understanding, and perseverance, individuals can embrace their new status as U.S. citizens, contributing to the rich tapestry of American diversity and heritage.