Citizenship and Immigration in Pennsylvania

If you are seeking the services of skilled Pennsylvania citizenship lawyers, you undoubtedly have a great many questions you would like answered about the citizenship process.

The citizenship process

Here is a brief review of questions commonly asked by individuals interested in becoming U.S. citizens:

• What is the difference between citizenship and naturalization?  Citizenship is the state of permanent legal residence in a country.  Naturalization is a process by which one can apply for citizenship, typically by living and working in the country where residence is desired for a specified number of years.

• How long does it take to become a citizen?  It can take months or even years, depending on when and where the application is filed, and on whether any complications arise.

• Can I become a citizen even if I came illegally from Mexico or another place?  Yes.  There are many ways to do this, but typically it still involves applying for legal citizenship.

• To become a U.S. citizen, do I have to give up my citizenship from my country of origin?  No.  You are not required to renounce your former citizenship.

• Can I apply for U.S. citizenship while living in another country?  Yes.  In fact, this is a common practice, especially for individuals who wish to join family members already living in the United States.

• Am I obligated to hire a citizenship lawyer?  No, you are not obligated to hire a Pennsylvania citizenship attorney, but it is advisable to do so.   Such professionals can expedite the citizenship process because they are knowledgeable of the rules and regulations which govern it.  They can also assist you if you are at risk of being deported.

• Can I get citizenship through my brother or sister?  Yes.  To do this, your brother or sister would have to file a Petition for an Alien Relative.

• In which cases can I lose my U.S. citizenship? You can lose citizenship for being convicted of treason, swearing an oath of allegiance to another country, or serving in the armed forces of a country with which the United States is at war.

Contact our Pennsylvania citizenship lawyers

Tahir Mella, Attorneys at Law, is more than happy to answer your questions or to provide information about citizenship and immigration.  Our knowledge spans all areas of immigration law. Contact our immigration law firm in Pennsylvania or call us at (215) 496-0690 today, so we can discuss your concerns.