You can leave the United States while applying for citizenship, but you may have to wait longer to receive your citizenship if you leave. The length of your wait will depend on why you left and how long you were gone.
- If you leave for a vacation or visit family, your wait time may be shorter than if you went to work or live in another country. If you have any questions about your citizenship application, you should contact an immigration lawyer.
- You won’t face any restrictions on travel if you’re a lawful permanent resident (a “green card” holder), even if you’re in the process of applying for U.S. citizenship.
- That’s because the primary purpose of the residency requirement is to ensure that applicants have strong ties to the United States.
- However, if you leave the country for an extended period, it may delay the processing of your citizenship application or even put it at risk.
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) recommends that applicants for naturalization avoid any unnecessary travel outside the United States once they have submitted their citizenship application.
- If you must travel, USCIS says you should carry your naturalization application receipt notice with you as proof that you have a pending application.
- If you’re a permanent resident who needs to travel outside the United States for an extended period, you can apply for a re-entry permit before you leave. This permit allows you to stay outside the United States for up to two years without losing your residency status.
- To get a re-entry permit, you must submit Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, to USCIS. You’ll need to include proof that you have strong ties to the United States, such as a job or property ownership.
- If you’re already a U.S. citizen, you can freely travel in and out of the country. However, it’s always a good idea to carry your U.S. passport when you travel to be on the safe side.
What Is A Naturalization Appointment?
An appointment for naturalization is when a USCIS officer will interview you to review your application and test your English and U.S. civics knowledge. You must have an appointment before you can take the naturalization test.
You can schedule an appointment for naturalization at any local USCIS office. To find the office nearest you, visit the USCIS website and use the office locator tool.
When you go for your appointment, you should bring the following items with you:
- Your naturalization application receipt notice
- Two passport-style photos of yourself
- Proof of your identity and U.S. citizenship status (such as a passport or birth certificate)
- Any documents that USCIS has asked you to bring
After your interview, you will be given a date for your naturalization ceremony. You will take the Oath of Allegiance at the ceremony and become a U.S. citizen.
If you have any questions about your citizenship application or appointment, you should contact an immigration attorney.
What If Your Visa Is Readily Available?
If your visa is available immediately, you may be able to leave the United States while you are still applying for citizenship. However, you should speak with an immigration attorney to determine if this is possible in your case.
When you leave the United States while applying for citizenship, you may have to wait longer to receive your citizenship. That is because the USCIS will want to make sure that you live in the United States while applying for citizenship.
If the USCIS determines that you left the country for reasons other than an emergency, your application may be denied.
What If Your Visa Isn’t Readily Available?
If your visa isn’t readily available, you may be able to apply for a waiver. A waiver will allow you to leave the United States while still applying for citizenship. However, you should speak with immigration lawyers to determine if this is possible in your case.
When you apply for a waiver, you will need to submit a Form I-131, Application for Travel Document. You’ll need to include proof that you have a valid reason for leaving the United States and that you have strong ties to the United States.
If your waiver is approved, you will be given a temporary document to allow you to travel outside the United States. This document is called a re-entry permit.
When you have any questions about your citizenship application or waiver, you should contact an immigration lawyer.
Should You Contact An Immigration Lawyer?
You should contact an immigration lawyer if you have any questions about your citizenship application or appointment. An immigration lawyer can help you understand the process and advise you on what to do next.
If you’re having trouble with your visa, the best thing to do is contact an immigration lawyer. Immigration attorneys can help you understand the process and advise you on what to do next.
You don’t have to worry about the cost of contacting an immigration lawyer. Many lawyers offer free or low-cost consultations. You can find a list of immigration lawyers in your area by visiting the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) website.
Usually, immigration lawyers charge around $200 per hour, but rates can vary depending on the attorney’s experience and location. You may be able to find a lawyer who will represent you for free or at a reduced cost.
Several organizations offer free or low-cost legal services to immigrants.
How Do You Pick An Immigration Lawyer?
You can also look up your local immigration law firm for options. Requirements that you’re looking for in an immigration lawyer would include :
- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) approval
- Able to speak your language
- Located near you
- Specializes in immigration law
- Has experience with your type of case
When looking for an immigration lawyer, it’s essential to find one that meets your needs.
You can ask friends or family members for recommendations. Once you’ve found a few lawyers you’re interested in, you should schedule consultations with each one.
During the consultation, you can ask the lawyer about their experience and whether they can help you with your case.
So, in conclusion, yes, you can leave the United States while you are applying for citizenship, but it may involve some risks in doing so. It’s always a good idea to speak with an immigration lawyer if you have any questions about your citizenship application.
Published by: How old is goku