- Be at least 18 years old.
- Hold a green card for at least 5 years (or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen).
- Demonstrate continuous residence and physical presence in the U.S.
- Show good moral character.
- Pass the U.S. civics and English language tests (some exceptions apply).
- Take the Oath of Allegiance.
Our attorneys can help guide you through the naturalization process, ensuring all requirements are met and that your application is properly prepared.
Work Permit (Employment Authorization Document – EAD)
A work permit, or Employment Authorization Document (EAD), allows eligible non-citizens to legally work in the U.S. while their immigration status is being processed.
Who Can Apply for a Work Permit?
- Asylum applicants with pending cases.
- DACA recipients.
- Spouses of certain visa holders (such as L-2 or H-4 visas).
- Adjustment of status applicants.
- Temporary Protected Status (TPS) holders.
We assist clients in determining eligibility, filing the application, and renewing work permits to ensure uninterrupted employment authorization.
Advance Parole (Travel Authorization for Certain Immigrants)
Advance parole allows individuals with pending immigration applications to travel abroad and return to the U.S. without jeopardizing their status.
Who Needs Advance Parole?
- Adjustment of status applicants waiting for a green card.
- DACA recipients who need to travel for humanitarian, educational, or employment purposes.
- TPS holders who must travel outside the U.S.
We help clients prepare strong applications for advance parole, avoiding unnecessary risks that could affect their immigration status.
Removal of Conditions on Permanent Residency (I-751 Petition)
Conditional green card holders who obtained residency through marriage must file an I-751 petition to remove conditions and obtain a 10-year green card.
Requirements for Filing an I-751 Petition:
- Must be filed within 90 days before the expiration of the conditional green card.
- Joint petition with the spouse or a waiver if the marriage has ended due to divorce, abuse, or the spouse’s death.
- Evidence of a bona fide marriage, such as joint bank statements, lease agreements, and affidavits from friends and family.
Our team assists clients in compiling strong evidence and preparing waiver requests if filing jointly is not possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
A: To qualify for U.S. citizenship and naturalization, you must be at least 18 years old, have had a green card for a specific period (usually 5 years or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen), demonstrate continuous residence and physical presence in the U.S., show good moral character, and pass an English and civics test.
A: Processing times vary, but it generally takes between 6 to 12 months from the time you submit Form N-400 to receiving a decision.
A: It depends on the nature and severity of the offense. Some criminal convictions may prevent you from becoming a U.S. citizen. It’s best to consult with an immigration attorney before applying.
A: The U.S. allows dual citizenship, but your home country may have its own rules about dual nationality.
A: Various individuals, including asylum seekers, certain spouses of visa holders, DACA recipients, and applicants for green cards, may qualify for a work permit.
A: Processing times vary but generally range from 3 to 6 months.
A: Typically, work permits are valid for one to two years, depending on your immigration status.
A: Yes, you can renew your work permit by filing Form I-765 before it expires. It’s best to apply for renewal at least 6 months before your current permit expires.
A: Advance parole is a travel document that allows certain non-citizens to leave and re-enter the U.S. without jeopardizing their immigration status. It is commonly used by green card applicants and DACA recipients.
A: You must file Form I-131 with USCIS and provide supporting documents, such as proof of your pending immigration application and a valid reason for travel.
A: Processing times vary, but it typically takes 3 to 6 months. Expedited processing may be available in urgent situations.
A: You should not travel without first obtaining advance parole. Leaving the U.S. without it may result in the denial of your green card application.
A: If you received a conditional green card through marriage, you must apply to remove the conditions within 90 days before the card expires to obtain a 10-year permanent green card.
A: File Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence, along with evidence that your marriage is bona fide (genuine).
A: Processing can take 12 to 24 months. You will receive a receipt notice extending your conditional green card’s validity while your application is pending.
A: You can still apply for removal of conditions by requesting a waiver and providing evidence that your marriage was entered into in good faith.
