Orange County Citizenship Attorneys
A citizenship attorney in Orange County can be a valuable ally in the citizenship process. In order to become a U.S. citizen via naturalization, applicants must pass an English and a civics test to demonstrate an understanding of U.S. history and government as well as a basic command of the English language. Many applicants underestimate how challenging the citizenship exam will be and do not realize the impact of failing the test. Although applicants are given two chances to pass, if you are not successful either time, your application for naturalization will be denied and you must begin the process over again. Tapping into the resources of your local Orange County citizenship attorneys can help prepare you for the test and give you a better understanding of what to expect.
Exemptions and waivers
Applicants with a physical or developmental disability or mental impairment may be exempt from the English and civics test requirement but must have a licensed doctor, psychiatrist, or clinical psychologist complete Form N-648, Medical Certification for Disability Exceptions, to be eligible. Permanent residents over age 50 who have been in the country at least 20 years, or over age 55 and a permanent resident for 15 years are not required to take the English language test and may be given special consideration for the civics exam. Others may be able to take the civics test in their native language. A qualified Orange County citizenship lawyer can advise applicants about all available options.
What to expect
The recently revised U.S. citizenship test seeks to assess an applicant’s basic understanding of the English language and knowledge of key points in U.S. history, government functions, and responsibilities of U.S. citizenship. A United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) officer asks each applicant 10 out of a possible 100 eligible questions. Applicants must answer six of the 10 questions correctly to pass. The English portion of the exam requires applicants to read aloud and write a few sentences. An Orange County citizenship attorney or USCIS representative can help applicants access study guides with a list of possible questions.
Examples of sample questions that may appear on the civics test include:
- How many branches are there in the U.S. government?
- What is the highest court in the United States?
- Who was the first President of the United States?
- What are the first 10 amendments to the Constitution called?
Advice and assistance from the immigration experts
Having an experienced citizenship lawyer in Orange County gives clients access to valuable resources and guidance and makes for a less stressful experience. If you are attempting to become a naturalized U.S. citizen, or have questions about the citizenship process, contact the Orange County citizenship lawyers at Wilner & O'Reilly for sound professional advice.
