QUICK FACTS ABOUT CITIZENSHIP
Many Maryland immigrants are eligible to become United States citizens, yet are unaware of the processes and benefits. Did you know that MontgomeryCounty is 10th highest destination in the nation for intending immigrants, and last year, less than 14% of the 270,000 legal permanent residents in Maryland and Virginia that are eligible to naturalize became citizens?
Below are some quick facts to answer basic questions and to ease the process. Please note this information is not meant as legal advice. If you have questions call MVMA at (301) 588-6862 to speak with a staff member.
The benefits of becoming a United States Citizen are:
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Vote in local, state, and national elections
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Run for elected office
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Get citizenship for your legal permanent resident children under age18
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Apply to bring family members to the US more quickly
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Travel with a US passport
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Have the same legal rights and protections of all US citizens
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Become Eligible for more federal benefits
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Have access to better job opportunities, including government jobs
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Serve on a jury
The requirements for becoming a U.S. citizen are:
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18 years or older
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Green card holder for 5 years (3 years if married to a US citizen)
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Have not taken any trips exceeding a year, or totaling more than 2 ½ years.
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Be able to speak, read, and write conversational English
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Pass a US civics exam
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Be a person of "Good Moral Character"
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Willing to take an oath of loyalty to the US
Listed below are specific circumstances that may cause problems or delays in your naturalization process. If one of these categories applies to you, please contact MVMA and we can arrange a consultation appointment with our attorney.
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You have moved to another country since you obtained your green card.
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You have been arrested, convicted, or admitted to committing any crime, including but not limited to misdemeanors, any drug crime, drunken driving, robbery, bigamy, or prostitution.
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You have had a deportation or removal order against you.
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You have not paid your taxes.
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You have not paid your child support.
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You are a male who has lived in the US between the ages of 18 and 26 and you did not register for military service.
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You are on probation or parole due to a criminal conviction.
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You have spent a period of 6 months or longer outside the U.S.
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The information on your Naturalization application and that on your green card differ.
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You entered the country illegally or assisted another person to enter illegally.
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You have used false documentation.
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You have been charged with committing domestic violence, abuse, or neglect of a child.
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You have registered or have voted in a federal, state, or local election.
Much of information was borrowed from the Seattle Public Library, King County Library System, and City of Seattle New Citizens Initiative.
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