Benefits of Naturalization
Lawful permanent residents (LPRs) in the United States often have the opportunity to become a citizen after they have had their green card for a certain period of time and they meet other eligibility requirements. Not all green card holders apply for citizenship, though. Instead, they choose to keep their LPR status indefinitely, or even forever. Some LPRs may choose this route because they think they are not eligible for naturalization, or they simply do not want to go through the hassle of the process.
Regardless of the reasons for choosing to maintain LPR status, there are many benefits that come with naturalization and ultimately, becoming a U.S. citizen. Below, our Atlanta naturalization lawyer explains what these are.
Sponsor More Relatives
Both U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents can sponsor family members to enter the United States to live. However, citizens can sponsor more relatives than LPRs. In addition to spouses and unmarried children, citizens can sponsor siblings and adult children who are married. Additionally, minor children may also acquire citizenship automatically when a parent naturalizes. This can occur if the child is an LPR, lives in the United States, and the naturalized parent has physical custody of them.
Avoid Long-Term Fees
American citizens do not have green cards that have to be renewed and so, they also do not have to pay the renewal fee. Citizens also do not have to pay for waivers or reentry permits and because they do not have to defend their immigration status, they can also save on legal fees. American citizens can also apply for educational grants, such as post-secondary scholarships. Citizens can also access housing programs and public benefits without putting their immigration status at risk.
Stronger Immigration Status
Unlike LPRs, American citizens cannot be deported, nor can they be denied entry into the United States. After becoming a citizen, some people even choose to live abroad permanently. In these cases, American citizenship will typically remain valid unless it is voluntarily renounced or it was obtained through fraud.
Voting Rights
Although American citizens can vote in federal elections, LPRs cannot. While LPRs may be able to vote at the local level, they do not have a vote in federal elections. American citizens can vote at the local, state, and federal levels.
Running for Office
Naturalized individuals cannot run for the presidency, as only people born in the United States are eligible. Still, American citizens can run for office at the state and local levels to become an elected official and influence the government.
Our Naturalization Lawyer in Atlanta Can Help with Your Case
Becoming an American citizen has many benefits, but the process is not easy. There are many challenges that can arise and so you need an Atlanta naturalization lawyer who can help you prepare for the process and overcome any issues that arise so you have the best chance of a successful outcome. For a consultation to discuss your needs and case, please call Shirazi Immigration Law, Inc. today at 404-523-3611.
Source:
uscis.gov/citizenship/learn-about-citizenship/citizenship-and-naturalization
