Naturalization
The U.S. welcomes immigrants from around the world who contribute with their hard work and loyalty to make of this country the world’s greatest nation. Becoming a citizen of the United States is probably the most prized possession available to American residents. Our staff at Steffas & Associates, P.C. possesses the necessary training and professionalism to assist individuals throughout the delicate process of application for naturalization. From establishing the individual’s eligibility, through the interview to the oath ceremony to securing, individuals receive qualified and dedicated service.
Permanent Residents (LPR)
A permanent resident can qualify to become a citizen in 3 or 5 years depending on their situation. Get more benefits as a citizen than a permanent resident. Contact us today. We are here to help you in the process of becoming a citizen of the United States.
Adopted children and US Citizenship
Children who are adopted by a US citizen are not automatically US citizens. Once they fulfill the requirements of the Child Citizenship Act, their citizenship is automatic. Below you can see how this statute works. Being a citizen is not enough. Children need evidence of citizenship and that is the Certificate of Citizenship that USCIS issues. According to a country’s laws and regulations, they decide whether prospective adoptive parents are given guardianship of custody or full and final decrees of adoption. Kefalas are not full final adoptions. When a child’s adoption has been finalized, the US consular officer in that country will issue an IR-3 or an IH-3. However, in countries that only grant guardianship or custody orders, the children are given IR-4 or IH-4 visas. This choice is made according to the laws and regulations in a child’s home country.
Children entering the United States with IR-3 or IH-3 visas: They have satisfied all the requirements of the Child Citizenship Act. Their adoptions have been finalized. Therefore, USCIS will send them a Certificate of Citizenship in approximately 6 months after entering the US. No forms, no fees. It is automatic.
Children entering the United States with IR-4 or IH-4 visas, and have not had their adoptions finalized: Citizenship is not automatic. Their parents must finalize their adoptions in the United States before they turn 18. Once those conditions are met, they are US citizens automatically. However, these children need evidence to prove that they are citizens. They can apply to USCIS for a Certificate of Citizenship, immigration form N-600. As of April 1, 2024, If you are filing on behalf of an individual who is the subject of a final adoption for immigration purposes and meets (or met before 18 years of age) the definition of child under INA sections 101(b)(1)(E), (F), or (G) Parents are encouraged to file as soon as possible because immigration fees continuously go up.
What about children who entered with IR-4 or IH-4 visas, but their parents did not finalize their adoption before the child’s 18th birthday? They apply for Naturalization after they have resided in the United States for 5 years as legal permanent residents. This is not automatic; naturalization requires the ability to speak and write in English, pass a civics test, and have good moral character.
The United States permits dual citizenship. To read more, click here for the FAQ Child Citizenship Act of 2000