CITIZENSHIP LAWYERS IN
COLUMBIA
Compare 4 verified Citizenship immigration attorneys in Columbia, South Carolina. Find the right lawyer for your US Citizenship & Naturalization case with transparent reviews and success rates.
Citizenship Attorneys
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Why Hire a Citizenship Lawyer in Columbia?
Columbia is home to 4 verified Citizenship immigration attorneys with an average of 20 years of experience and a 93% average success rate. These attorneys collectively serve clients in 5 languages including English, Mandarin, Japanese, French and more. 1 attorney offers free initial consultations.
US naturalization is the final step in the immigration journey, transforming lawful permanent residents into full US citizens with the right to vote, hold public office, and obtain a US passport. To naturalize, you must have been a permanent resident for at least 5 years (3 years if married to a US citizen), maintained continuous residence and physical presence in the US, demonstrated good moral character, and passed English language and US civics tests. The process involves filing Form N-400, attending a biometrics appointment, passing an interview with a USCIS officer, and taking the Oath of Allegiance. While many applicants handle naturalization without an attorney, legal counsel is valuable for applicants with criminal history, extended travel abroad, tax issues, or other complications that could affect eligibility.
Citizenship Process Overview
Eligibility Check
1-2 weeksVerify you meet residency requirements (5 years as LPR, or 3 years if married to US citizen) and continuous presence.
File Form N-400
1-2 weeks to prepareSubmit the Application for Naturalization with USCIS along with supporting documents and filing fee.
Biometrics Appointment
2-4 weeks after filingAttend a biometrics appointment for fingerprinting and background check.
Citizenship Interview & Test
6-12 months after filingPass the English language test and civics exam during your USCIS interview.
Oath Ceremony
1-4 weeks after interviewTake the Oath of Allegiance at a naturalization ceremony and receive your Certificate of Citizenship.
Common Challenges
- •Extended trips abroad breaking continuous residence requirements
- •Criminal history or moral character issues affecting eligibility
- •English language test difficulties for older applicants
- •Selective Service registration issues for male applicants
- •Tax filing irregularities during the statutory period
Required Documents
- •Form N-400 Application for Naturalization
- •Copy of permanent resident card (green card)
- •Passport photos and identification documents
- •Tax returns for the statutory period (3 or 5 years)
- •Travel history documentation
- •Marriage certificate (if applying under 3-year rule)