When trying to become a U.S. citizen, there seem to be many steps to go through. There is a process, however, to become a citizen, and while the entire ordeal may take years, there are things you should know before starting out. Getting a Green Card is the first step to becoming a permanent naturalized citizen. Understanding these three possible avenues to get a Green Card may give you some idea of how you want to proceed.
As a card holder there is a right to make an application for government-sponsored financial aid for education. You can pay less tuition for university and college, also called “in-state” tuition or “resident” tuition. Savings in many instances are three to four times less than what foreigners pay.
The authorization of employment of foreign workers, and verification of their legal status in the United States, is regulated from the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. This agency grants legal status to foreign workers over the issuance of an various permanent work authorizations (often generally known as “green cards”) and temporary work visas.
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Through a Relative
People tend to immigrate to areas where they know people. A pathway to citizenship may start with relatives already living in the U.S. These relatives must be U.S. citizens (naturalized or by birth), or they must have permanent resident status. There are applications that a Spanish speaking attorney Houston can help you fill out. Becoming a citizen through a relative already in the country is the most common way people go through the process.
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By Marriage
Another way to get a Green Card is to marry a citizen. There are a few things you should be aware of before setting out to marry just for citizenship. First, the U.S. government is rigorous in how couples meet, marry and the way they present proof of their relationship. The investigator must be convinced that the marriage is real and not just a way to enter the United States legally.
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Asylum Application
The U.S. government has flagged some countries as dangerous. Citizens from these countries may go to the closest U.S. Embassy and apply for asylum. The three most prominent reasons for applying for asylum include fleeing persecution based on religion, race, gender or sexual orientation. If you can prove you fit these criteria, and you do not have a criminal record, you may gain entry and eventually apply for a Green Card.
Becoming a U.S. citizen may be a dream for many. With the right perspective and diligence, you can achieve your goal.
