There are millions of lawful permanent residents who are eligible to apply for citizenship. Yet only a small percentage apply each year.
There are many myths surrounding the immigration process. Unfortunately, this misinformation often prevents many lawful permanent residents from applying for citizenship.
Here, we’ll dispel some of the most common myths surrounding the immigration process, and give you the information you need to know before applying.
U.S Citizenship Is Expensive
There is a filing fee of $680 for every citizenship application. This is an expensive fee, but you have to put it in context. If you remain a lawful permanent resident, you’ll have to renew your green card every 10 years, costing $450 each time.
Additionally, you’ll have to pay $450 if you ever lose or damage your green card. If you are a U.S. citizen, you never have to worry about the green card process. Once you are a U.S. citizen, you’ll never have to submit another form to USCIS.
You may also be able to apply for U.S. citizenship without a lawyer. If you do choose to hire a lawyer, many offer affordable rates. They can also make the process go more smoothly, saving you time and effort collecting and preparing documentation.
Citizenship Tests Are Hard To Pass
Many potential applicants for U.S. citizenship fear that the citizenship tests will be too hard. They may feel that they do not have enough time to study, and worry that they will waste their money applying, only to fail the test.
The citizenship tests can be challenging to some. But there are a number of free resources available to make the tests much easier for you. You are also allowed to retake the test if you fail it. This gives you another chance to pass the test without having to reapply.
In addition to the study materials, you can find a number of test questions online, provided by USCIS. This makes it much easier to be prepared for the test.
Citizenship Is Similar To Permanent Residence
Some lawful permanent residents choose not to apply for citizenship because they believe they have little to gain. Although there is nothing wrong with staying a lawful permanent resident, there are many benefits that come from being a U.S. citizen.
If you are a U.S. citizen, you never have to worry about being deported. If you run into any issues while abroad, the U.S. can also come to your aid, something that they will not do if you are a lawful permanent resident.
You can travel with a U.S. passport, and also receive priority if any of your family members intend to move to the country.
If your children are still minors, then they will also automatically become citizens, receiving all of the benefits that you do. There are also a number of scholarship and student aid opportunities that are only available to U.S. citizens.
Once you are a U.S. citizen, you will also be able to vote in U.S. elections, as well as contribute to campaigns. If you are interested in politics, then becoming a citizen is one of the best ways to get involved.
Contact An Experienced Immigration Attorney
If you are considering applying for U.S. citizenship, reach out to an experienced immigration attorney.
At Monument Immigration, our only focus is on immigration law. We can help you prepare your citizenship application and submit it within 2 business days.
We offer free case evaluations, where we can advise you on your case and walk you through the immigration process. Contact us today.