Citizenship
Name Change at the Time of Naturalization
Becoming a U.S. citizen through naturalization is a significant milestone, and for many, it presents an opportunity to change their name legally. The option to change your name during the naturalization process is a convenient choice, but is it the best one? In this blog, we will explore the benefits and drawbacks of changing your…
Read MoreContinuous Residence vs. Physical Presence: Naturalization Guide
In the journey toward U.S. naturalization, applicants often encounter complex legal requirements, two of which are continuous residence and physical presence. Though they may sound similar, understanding the distinction between these two is crucial for a successful naturalization process. This comprehensive guide aims to shed light on the differences, ensuring aspiring citizens navigate their path…
Read MoreSeamless Social Security Updates Await New U.S. Citizens
In a move to further streamline the naturalization process for noncitizens, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has introduced a pivotal update, effective April 1st. This enhancement, integrated into the new edition of Form N-400 (edition date 04/01/24), is designed to simplify the journey towards U.S. citizenship by offering an option to request a…
Read MoreNavigating International Travel as a Newly Naturalized U.S. Citizen Without a U.S. Passport
Congratulations on becoming a newly naturalized U.S. citizen! This significant milestone offers numerous benefits, including the freedom to travel with a U.S. passport. However, what happens when you need to travel internationally on an emergency family visit and haven’t yet obtained your U.S. passport? As a U.S. citizen, you cannot enter the country using a…
Read MoreVisa Appointment Scheduling Issues at Sydney, Australia
The recent launch of Sydney’s new visa appointment scheduling website was supposed to be a technological leap towards streamlined and efficient visa processing for the U.S Consulates in Australia. Instead, it has proven to be a source of frustration, confusion, and stress for visa applicants. From failed email correspondences to vanishing MRV fees, the new…
Read MoreUSCIS Introduces New Self-Service Tool for Change of Address
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has taken another leap towards digital transformation by unveiling the Enterprise Change of Address (E-COA) self-service tool. This user-friendly platform promises improved convenience for USCIS customers who have ongoing applications, petitions, or requests and need to keep their address details updated. What is the E-COA Tool? E-COA stands out…
Read MoreThe Impact of Child Support Arrears on U.S. Passport Eligibility
In the United States, certain legal obligations, such as child support, can have an impact on one’s immigration status and eligibility for certain federal benefits. One aspect that often goes unnoticed is how owing child support can affect one’s ability to obtain or renew a U.S. passport. Today, we’re delving into this critical topic to…
Read MoreImportance of N-600 (Certificate of Citizenship) for Children
In today’s ever-evolving global environment, acquiring proof of U.S. citizenship is of paramount importance. The USCIS Form N-600, Application for Certificate of Citizenship, plays a pivotal role in this process. Primarily used by individuals who automatically attained U.S. citizenship through birth or adoption, the N-600 form helps provide them with a Certificate of Citizenship if…
Read MoreOptions for Child Born Abroad to US Citizen parents
Understanding the immigration options for a child born abroad with one US citizen parent and one non-US citizen parent can be challenging. In this blog post, we will discuss the various pathways to citizenship or permanent residency for these children, including acquiring US citizenship at birth, obtaining a Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA), and…
Read MoreEvidence of LPR Status (ADIT stamp)
Introduction The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has implemented a new procedure that allows LPRs to receive ADIT stamp by mail. Alien Documentation, Identification, and Telecommunication (ADIT) stamp, also known as an I-551 stamp is a temporary evidence of lawful permanent residence (LPR) status which, traditionally, an applicant was able to obtain by visiting…
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