Derivative Citizenship
Our immigration attorneys are highly experienced in making use of opportunities the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services ("USCIS") makes available to foreign nationals, granting them the ability to live and work in the U.S. and travel internationally. These opportunities are based upon a qualifying relationship with a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
Both U.S. citizens and permanent residents have the ability to file a petition for members of their immediate families, depending upon the individual relationship. This petition, based upon a qualifying relationship, can be made either in the United States, or in your home country at a U.S. embassy or consulate. We have assisted many people in claiming U.S. citizenship.
Eligibility
Citizenship can be acquired at birth or derived through the naturalization or birth of one parent. Depending upon the facts in the case, including the date of birth of the applicant, the law applies varying standards of proof, including legitimacy or children born out-of-wedlock, and the amount of required physical presence in the U.S. by the parent through whom the citizenship is claimed. A person born outside the U.S. has the burden of proof in claiming acquisition of U.S. citizenship. Relatives who may qualify for family immigration:
• A Spouse or unmarried children of a U.S. Citizen or Permanent resident
• Children (married or single) of the U.S Citizen (over the age of twenty-one (21)
• Parents of the U.S citizen (over the age of twenty-one (21)
• Siblings of a U.S. Citizen
• Orphan child/Adoptee (under sixteen (16)
• Amerasian children fathered by a U.S. Serviceman during either the Vietnam or Korean War
These relationships can also lead to lawful permanent resident status, known as a "green card". After obtaining "Permanent Resident" status, you are eligible to become a U.S. citizen within three-to-five years of obtaining your green card. It is also possible to obtain a green card through marriage to a U.S. citizen.
Our Services
We provide full service representation for filing, test and interview preparation, and defending against actions and requests for evidence from the government. We guide the case through the processing to ensure it is handled properly. Due to the federal nature of immigration law, we serve clients in all U.S. states and throughout the world. Contact us for more information or to start your case. Although the path to citizenship, permanent residence, and legalization of a non-immigrant visa is often a long and complicated process, our team of dedicated professionals are here to guide you through it, making the whole experience as easy as possible for you.