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Looking for an American Citizenship Lawyer in Chicago, IL? You've come to the right place.
In 2022, a little over one million people gained American citizenship. Last year was a record-breaking year due to COVID-19 restrictions on citizenship applications. As an immigrant, you may be wondering how to get American citizenship in Chicago, IL. However, getting approval can be a complicated and lengthy process.
Luckily, we may be able to help. If you want to speed up the process and ensure you submit a complete and accurate application, hire an American citizenship attorney in Chicago, IL.
Ibrahim Law helps clients obtain citizenship daily. And we want to help you. Contact us today to request a consultation or to learn more.
*Please note: We require a consultation fee. The consultation fee will be credited towards our service fees.*
How Does The Application Process Work?
The first step in applying for American citizenship is to determine if you meet the requirements. This worksheet was developed by the U.S. government to help people understand their eligibility. Once you’ve determined you are eligible, there are several steps to complete, including the following:
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File
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Fees
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Exam
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Interview
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Oath
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Contact An Attorney
Starting your immigration journey can be a complex process involving many steps, each requiring careful attention to detail to ensure that your application is not rejected. Therefore, it is essential to complete each step correctly and thoroughly. To ensure that you navigate the immigration process smoothly, it is advisable to seek the guidance of an experienced immigration attorney. By working with an attorney, you can increase your chances of success and avoid mishaps that could derail your application. An experienced attorney can also help you determine whether or not you are eligible for citizenship. So, if you are considering starting your immigration journey, we recommend you speak to an attorney to help guide you through the process. Please feel free to contact us at 312-767-8611 to schedule an appointment.
Complete Form N-400
Once you have determined your eligibility, the next step is to complete Form N-400, which is the application for naturalization. The form requires detailed information about your personal history, employment history, and criminal record. Here are some additional details about Form N-400:
Personal Information
Residential History
Employment History
Criminal History
Travel History
Once you have completed Form N-400, you will need to submit it along with any required documents and the appropriate fees to USCIS. It's crucial to ensure that your application is filled out correctly and that you include all the necessary supporting documents to avoid delays or denial of your application.
Pay application fees
After completing Form N-400, you will need to pay the required application fees. The fees vary depending on your circumstances, such as whether you are applying based on military service or marriage to a U.S. citizen.
Complete a biometrics examination
As part of the naturalization process, you will need to complete a biometrics examination. This involves providing fingerprints and photographs to USCIS, which will be used for background checks and to verify your identity.
The biometrics examination usually takes place at a USCIS Application Support Center (ASC). During your appointment, you will be required to provide your fingerprints and photographs. The process is quick and straightforward, and typically takes only a few minutes to complete.
It's essential to note that the biometrics examination is a mandatory part of the naturalization process. Failure to attend your scheduled biometrics appointment may result in the delay or denial of your naturalization application. Therefore, it's crucial to make every effort to attend your biometrics appointment on time and with all the required documents.
Complete an interview
After your application and biometric information have been processed, the next step in the naturalization process is the interview. The interview is typically conducted by a USCIS officer who will ask questions to verify the information provided in your application. Additionally, the officer will assess your ability to read, write, speak, and understand English, as well as your knowledge of U.S. history and government. During the interview, the officer will also review your biometric information, such as your fingerprints, and ask about any changes in your circumstances since you submitted your application. It's important to prepare thoroughly for the interview to ensure that you are able to answer the questions accurately and confidently. This will help to increase your chances of a successful naturalization process.
Take the Oath of Allegiance
If your application is approved, you will be required to take the Oath of Allegiance. The oath is a solemn promise to support and defend the Constitution and laws of the United States.
Taking the Oath of Allegiance is one of the most significant moments in the naturalization process. By taking this oath, you are making a solemn promise to support and defend the Constitution and laws of the United States. The oath is not just a formality; it is a powerful symbol of your commitment to your new country and your willingness to become an active and responsible citizen.
The Oath of Allegiance is administered by a USCIS officer and is usually taken during a naturalization ceremony. The ceremony is a formal event that celebrates your new status as a U.S. citizen and is typically attended by family, friends, and sometimes government officials.
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Our clients across the globe recommend our diligent service and compassionate approach to their loved ones. We aim to be a reliable partner that our clients can depend on during challenging and uncertain times.
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Deportations avoided
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Green cards won
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What Are the American Citizenship Requirements in Chicago, IL?
Some of the requirements for U.S. citizenship can be tricky to meet. However, with the help of an American citizenship lawyer in Chicago, IL, clients can ensure they meet these requirements and can prove it. Working with an immigration attorney benefits clients in many ways because they gain access to their legal experience and also get advice on how to complete these steps appropriately.
18 years or older.
Green card holder in the U.S. for 5 years OR be married to a U.S. citizen and hold a green card for 3 years.
Continuously lived in the U.S. without taking trips outside the country for more than 6 months at a time.
Resided in Illinois or the USCIS district you plan to apply for citizenship for at least 3 months.
Pass the citizenship test – must know how to read, write, and speak English and pass a civics exam on U.S. history.
Willing to serve in the U.S. Army or perform other civil services if requested.
Willing to support, defend, and believe the U.S. Constitution’s principles and rules.
Highly-Qualified Immigration Attorney
Our American citizenship attorney, Michael Ibrahim, is deeply experienced immigration law. He has a JD from DePaul University and several licenses, including the State of Illinois, Executive Officer for Immigration Review, U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh District, U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois
Michael continuously researches new litigation to remain current on immigration changes. He is a member of several professional organizations.
Multicultural Experience
Michael Ibrahim has immigrant parents and truly understands the struggles his clients face. He embraces multiple cultures and speaks five languages (English, Spanish, Arabic, German, and Syriac). His ability to adapt to his audience allows him to communicate effectively with many people across the industry.
Dedicated Legal Support
The team at Ibrahim Law provide supportive and compassionate legal services. They stand by their clients’ sides until the end. They are well-versed in all areas of immigration law and guide their clients throughout the process of obtaining citizenship, residency, visas, and more.
If you want to work with a law office that will provide dedicated service while being supportive, communicative, and compassionate, we want to talk to you. Our team enjoys helping others achieve their dreams of living in the US!
Hire an American Citizenship Lawyer
When aiming to become an American citizen in Chicago, IL, having an American citizenship lawyer can make a huge difference. The legal journey to citizenship is filled with intricate details and steps that need utmost accuracy and diligence. By having a lawyer, you get professional assistance to avoid mistakes, ensuring all the paperwork is correct and submitted on time. This is crucial as any errors can lead to delays or even rejections. An American citizenship lawyer in Chicago, IL, like Ibrahim Law, can provide the necessary guidance and support to help you fulfill your American dream smoothly and efficiently.
At Ibrahim Law, our approach is to offer comprehensive support to our clients from start to finish. We don’t just assist with the paperwork; we prepare our clients for the interviews and the tests required for citizenship. Our American citizenship lawyer in Chicago, IL, is well-versed with the intricacies of the citizenship process and provides insights that are tailored to individual needs. This personalized approach helps in addressing any specific concerns or hurdles, making the journey to American citizenship less stressful and more straightforward.
Immigration Attorneys In Chicago
Obtaining American citizenship is both exciting and stressful to navigate. Going through such a life change shouldn’t be full of doubts and fears. That’s why Ibrahim Law wants to help you with your American citizenship application. Our American Citizenship Lawyer in Chicago, IL, has assisted numerous clients to meet their residency goals.
Our dedicated legal team works tirelessly to help clients achieve their dreams. We’d love to add you to our list of successful wins. Please contact our office today to request a consultation to determine if we can help.
*Please note: We require a consultation fee. The consultation fee will be credited towards our service fees.*
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Frequently Asked Questions
The timeline depends on a few factors. The first is how fast you complete your application. Once the application is in the processing phase, it is up to the USCIS timeframes. These vary, but currently it is 10 months for Chicago. You can check the most recent processing time here.
On average, the entire process from start to finish is between 18-24 months. It’s important to note that a high number of applicants, delays, and other factors may make the process last longer.
Applicants do not have to be represented by a lawyer to apply for American citizenship. However, many people do feel more confident in the process by having an attorney by their sides. An attorney has the experience needed to guide their clients through the process smoothly.
Some people should speak to an attorney before applying, such as those with a criminal record. People who have issues meeting the eligibility worksheet requirements or anyone serving in the U.S. military may also want to consider speaking to an attorney.
If you were denied American citizenship, an attorney may be able to help you appeal the decision. If you have no idea where to start or how to gain citizenship, an attorney could help.
American citizenship comes with many freedoms and privileges. There are quite a few activities you cannot do in the U.S. without citizenship status, including the following:
Vote or register to vote
Travel freely with a passport
Serve on a jury
Hold a political office position
Sponsor a relative wanting a green card
Gain access to several scholarships, jobs, and public benefits
Once an application is accepted, the applicant must complete a two-part citizenship test. The first is to showcase their ability to read, write, and speak English. During this test, the applicant reads and writes a sentence to determine their understanding. The interview is conducted in English, and that is the oral portion of the exam.
The second part of the test is to measure the applicant’s understanding of U.S. civics and history. During this part of the test, the applicant must answer 10 questions orally regarding U.S. history. These questions are pulled from a pool of 100, and the applicant must get six of them correct to pass.
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Department has 19,000 employees all over the nation who manage immigration services for the country. The Chicago office processes immigration requests for the region. You can learn more about the agency on their website.
When applicants hire an attorney, they gain their knowledge, support, and guidance. An American citizenship attorney helps their clients fill out the application correctly and helps them prepare for the interviews and tests required. Immigration attorneys know the ins and outs of citizenship and help their clients reach their goals as quickly as possible.
Immigration attorneys have years of experience in completing the citizenship process, so they can proactively resolve issues before they arise. This helps many clients to save time and money on their paths to American citizenship. Attorneys also know how to navigate the more difficult situations, such as applicants with a record, and can help them understand their options and rights.
Hear From Our
Clients
"One of the top immigration lawyers in Chicagoland. Michael Ibrahim is attentive, supportive, and knowledgeable. One of his best abilities is his availability. He responds to emails with attention and detail, often on the same day. Don't underestimate that in dealing with any immigration matter. He is personable; he does not simply collect fees and treat you like a client but rather like a friend. Your success is his success, and he understands that. If Michael were a surgeon, accountant, or another lawyer in any other field. I would want him. You cannot replicate him.." -Yousef S.
"My wife and I are very thankful for Micheal Ibrahim. Before we hired him, we approached many immigration lawyers over ten years to duplicate documents that were destroyed in a fire. The results were disappointing. Micheal was able to find the lost documents. My wife got her permanent residency. He was always available for us during a stressful time. We would like to thank Michael for his knowledge, professionalism, and expertise. We would definitely recommend Michael for immigration services." -Farzad D.
"Michael took over my case, which had been in immigration proceedings for many years, and I am so glad that he did. He is very professional, kept my husband, and I informed of every step of the process, and gave us the most honest and beneficial advice! Highly recommended for anyone who is in need of a great immigration attorney! Thank you again, Michael!" -Nida F.
