Becoming a United States citizen is a milestone achievement, a culmination of years of effort, stability, and commitment to life in America. Whether you’ve lived in the country for decades or are just beginning to chart a path to citizenship, understanding how the naturalization process works is essential. At Bartell, Georgalas & Juarez, our Cleveland naturalization attorneys are honored to help individuals and families navigate the path to U.S. citizenship with professionalism, care, and a deep understanding of federal and Ohio-specific immigration procedures.
With offices serving Cleveland, Independence, Columbus, and Oxford, Ohio, we work with clients at every stage of the naturalization journey. From reviewing eligibility to preparing for USCIS interviews and overcoming legal obstacles, we are committed to helping you achieve the full benefits of U.S. citizenship.
Who Qualifies for U.S. Citizenship?
Citizenship in the United States can be acquired in several ways, but the most common path is through naturalization. This process requires applicants to meet specific eligibility criteria outlined in the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), passed by Congress. While the naturalization process can be straightforward for some, many applicants find themselves overwhelmed by its legal complexity.
To be eligible for naturalization, you must meet the following basic requirements:
- Be at least 18 years of age
- Be a lawful permanent resident (green card holder)
- Have maintained continuous residence in the U.S. for at least five years (or three years for certain spouses of U.S. citizens)
- Demonstrate good moral character and no disqualifying criminal history
- Possess basic English proficiency, including the ability to read, write, and speak in English
- Show a basic understanding of U.S. history and government (civics)
These requirements ensure that applicants have a solid foundation in American life and values before taking on the responsibilities of citizenship. However, they are not always applied in black-and-white terms. For example, certain crimes or extended trips abroad may disrupt your eligibility, even if you’ve held a green card for many years. Our Cleveland naturalization lawyers can review your personal background and advise you on how to meet or restore eligibility under current immigration laws.
It’s also important to know that U.S. citizenship may be derived or acquired through a parent, particularly if the parent is a citizen and the applicant was a minor at the time. This route follows a different legal process, and our Cleveland attorneys can help determine if you may qualify without going through the formal naturalization application.
How Does the Naturalization Process Work?
The naturalization process begins with the filing of Form N-400, the Application for Naturalization, with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This form gathers personal information, immigration history, employment details, travel records, and disclosures about your moral character.
Here is a step-by-step overview of what to expect during the naturalization process in Cleveland, Ohio:
- Form N-400 Submission: Complete and submit your Form N-400 to USCIS, including the appropriate filing fee and any required supporting documentation.
- Biometrics Appointment: After initial processing, you’ll receive notice of a biometrics appointment where USCIS will collect your fingerprints, photo, and signature for background checks.
- USCIS Interview: You will be scheduled for an in-person interview with a USCIS officer. During this meeting, your application will be reviewed in detail, and you’ll take the English language and civics tests, unless exempt due to age or medical condition.
- Decision and Notification: After the interview, you will receive one of three outcomes:
- Approval
- Continued (requiring further documentation or a test retake)
- Denial
- Oath of Allegiance Ceremony: If approved, you will attend a naturalization ceremony and take the Oath of Allegiance, officially becoming a U.S. citizen.
Common Barriers to Naturalization
Even if you appear to meet the qualifications, several factors can delay or prevent approval of your application. Some of the most common barriers include:
- Past Immigration Violations: Overstaying a visa, unlawful entry, or deportation orders can affect your moral character determination and raise concerns with USCIS.
- Criminal History: Certain criminal convictions, even from many years ago, may disqualify you from naturalization. This includes both U.S. and foreign convictions.
- Breaks in Continuous Residency: Extended travel outside the U.S. (typically more than 180 days) can disrupt the residency requirement.
- Failure to Pay Taxes or Child Support: Outstanding financial obligations may also call your good moral character into question.
If any of these apply to your situation, do not assume you're disqualified. Our Cleveland immigration attorneys have helped clients with “red flags” in their history successfully achieve citizenship. We will evaluate your case, identify potential roadblocks, and work to address them effectively.
Who Is Eligible for Consular Processing?
Consular processing is one of two primary methods for obtaining lawful permanent residence (a green card). This route applies to individuals who are currently outside the United States and wish to apply for U.S. immigration status from abroad.
To begin consular processing, an immigrant petition must be filed on your behalf, usually by a family member or employer. Once the petition is approved and a visa number becomes available, you will attend an interview at a U.S. Department of State consulate in your country of residence.
You may be eligible for consular processing if:
- You live outside of the United States
- You are being sponsored for a green card through employment or family
- You have never entered the U.S. without inspection or violated immigration laws
- You are ineligible for adjustment of status in the U.S.
While consular processing can be more straightforward in some cases, it also introduces risks such as separation from family, processing delays, and strict consular scrutiny. If you are unsure whether you qualify or are already beginning the process, our Cleveland-based immigration team can guide you through every step. We’ll help prepare your petition, schedule the consular interview, and make sure you are thoroughly ready for the questions you may face.
Earning Employment-Based Visa Eligibility
If you’re pursuing naturalization and wish to establish eligibility through employment, it’s crucial to understand how work status and documentation tie into your broader immigration strategy.
Under U.S. immigration law, individuals are eligible to work if they:
- Are lawful permanent residents or U.S. citizens
- Hold valid employment-based visas (such as H-1B, L-1, E-1, or O-1)
Employers are required to verify your identity and employment eligibility using Form I-9, in accordance with 8 C.F.R. Section 274a.2. This form must be completed for every employee hired after November 6, 1986.
Our Cleveland firm regularly assists clients with:
- Obtaining and maintaining employment visas
- Transitioning from a work visa to lawful permanent residence
- Using employment history to support naturalization applications
With decades of combined experience, Bartell, Georgalas & Juarez has worked with clients throughout Cleveland, Ohio and nearby cities to resolve employment-based immigration issues with professionalism and care. Whether you're an employee, an entrepreneur, or an employer sponsoring workers, we’re ready to help you achieve long-term legal security in the U.S.
Benefits of U.S. Citizenship
While the naturalization process can feel demanding, the rewards of U.S. citizenship are significant and lasting. Becoming a citizen means more than just holding a passport; it provides you with a stronger voice, greater protection, and enhanced opportunities to build a secure future in the United States.
Key benefits of naturalization include:
- The Right to Vote: U.S. citizens can fully participate in federal, state, and local elections, helping shape the future of their communities and the nation.
- Protection From Deportation: Once you become a citizen, you can no longer be deported or removed for past immigration violations or criminal convictions that would have affected permanent residents.
- Ability to Sponsor Family Members: Citizens can petition for more categories of relatives, including parents, siblings, and married children, to immigrate to the United States.
- Access to Federal Jobs and Benefits: Many government jobs, financial aid opportunities, and public programs are only available to U.S. citizens.
- Freedom to Travel and Live Abroad: With a U.S. passport, you can travel freely, receive consular protection, and even live abroad without risking your status.
Naturalization opens doors to rights and privileges that go far beyond those available to green card holders. At Bartell, Georgalas & Juarez, we are proud to help individuals in Cleveland, Independence, Columbus, and Oxford, Ohio, take this final step toward full participation in American life.
How Can a Cleveland Immigration Attorney Help?
Achieving U.S. citizenship through naturalization is a major life milestone, but it can also be one of the most legally and emotionally demanding processes you’ll face. From gathering the correct documents to preparing for interviews and overcoming past complications, every step requires careful attention. That’s where the attorneys at Bartell, Georgalas & Juarez come in. Based in Cleveland, Ohio, and serving clients across Independence, Columbus, and Oxford, our firm provides full-service legal support to help you achieve citizenship with clarity and confidence.
Focused on Immigration Law
Unlike general practice firms, our Cleveland firm concentrates solely on immigration and criminal defense for immigrants. This means:
- We stay up-to-date on all changes in immigration laws, policies, and procedures
- We offer strategic guidance backed by decades of combined immigration experience
- We assist with all aspects of the naturalization process, including Form N-400 preparation, interview support, and appeals
Our legal strategies are shaped by deep knowledge of federal immigration statutes and an understanding of how to avoid common obstacles.
Cultural Understanding and Global Reach
We work with individuals and families from around the world and bring a multicultural perspective to every case:
- Our Cleveland team includes attorneys and staff who speak Spanish, Russian, Thai, and more
- We understand the cultural and geopolitical challenges that often impact immigration
- We are deeply rooted in Cleveland and have helped countless clients across Ohio successfully achieve citizenship
This blend of local knowledge and global insight helps us offer solutions that are both practical and personalized.
Defense Against Removal and Legal Obstacles
For many people, the path to citizenship is complicated by legal challenges. We help overcome barriers such as:
- Past immigration violations, including unlawful entry or visa overstays
- Criminal charges that may affect moral character determinations
- Removal proceedings or past denials that require reconsideration or waivers
- The need for representation before the Board of Immigration Appeals or federal courts
Our Cleveland attorneys defend your rights, preserve your eligibility, and fight for your future when your status is at risk.
Employment-Based Naturalization and Legal Support
If your journey to citizenship is tied to your career, we can help with:
- Employment-based green card applications and labor certification processes
- Visa options including H-1B, L-1, O-1, and EB-1, EB-2, EB-3 categories
- Transitioning from work visas to lawful permanent residence and ultimately to citizenship
- Ensuring all supporting documentation meets USCIS standards and is filed on time
We work closely with both employers and employees to provide clarity and compliance in all employment-related matters.
Dedicated Service and Accessible Counsel
We believe every Cleveland client deserves:
- 24/7 availability and emergency support when urgent immigration matters arise
- Flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend consultations
- Clear, respectful communication at every stage of the process
- Legal strategies that are tailored to your individual history, goals, and concerns
From the moment you reach out to us, we are committed to delivering personalized service and trusted legal guidance.
Whether you’re just beginning the naturalization process, facing delays, or confronting legal barriers, Bartell, Georgalas & Juarez is here to help. Our Cleveland immigration attorneys are proud to serve individuals and families throughout Ohio, offering the experience, integrity, and determination needed to help you become a U.S. citizen.
Contact Bartell, Georgalas & Juarez Today for Help Obtaining Citizenship Through Naturalization
Becoming a U.S. citizen is more than a legal process; it’s a powerful step toward creating a better life for you and your family. At Bartell, Georgalas & Juarez, we are passionate about helping immigrants throughout Cleveland, Ohio, as well as in Independence, Columbus, and Oxford, Ohio, achieve this dream.
From start to finish, we walk you through each stage of the naturalization process with skill, care, and attention to detail. We also provide support for a wide range of immigration matters, including:
Whether you're just beginning your citizenship journey in Cleveland or need help overcoming a barrier to naturalization, we are here to support you every step of the way.
Contact us today for a free initial consultation and see how we can help you take the final step toward becoming an American citizen.
