This November 06, 2012 is the United States presidential election. This is going to be my first time voting in a national election like this. Not that I just turned 18 (how I wish) but I have completed the process of naturalization last February of last year. Naturalization is the manner in which a person not born in the United States voluntarily becomes a U.S. citizen. It was a long process but it’s all worth it. I am originally from the Philippines and my wife and I moved to Pennsylvania in 2005 because of her job. It was never my dream to live and work here but the thought of living apart is unbearable. I had to give up a decent paying job in exchange for the elusive American dream. Migrating here in the US from a tropical country is a big change of lifestyle. First few years were like a roller coaster ride while learning how to survive to a new environment. But eventually I learned the ropes of being an American and people thought that I was born here.
Who is Eligible to Apply?
Before applying for naturalization, there are few things to remember. You have to be at least 18 yrs old and have a green card for at least 5 years. Of course, the most important thing is, you have to be able to read, write and speak the English language. There is also a test called the civic test which is about the US history and government. Aside from the general requirement above, an individual that is applying for naturalization have to have a good moral character.
Waiting Period
We received a letter in the mail stating that they receive our application for naturalization. After a month, we have received an appointment letter for biometric services from USCIS (US Citizenship and Immigration Services). We waited for another month after our biometrics were taken after another letter arrived. The letter states my appointment time and date. In this meeting with an officer, you answer questions about your application and background and take the English and civics tests. It took about 4 months to become naturalized. But I have known people that waited about a year or so until they have completed the process. But these people have pending court orders or involve in any other malicious conduct. Good thing I never got involved in any crime or court proceedings that can affect their decision in granting me the US citizenship. That is why as I mentioned earlier, you have to be a person of good moral character to apply or your case will take forever to process. Or get an immigration lawyer to help you succeed.
Miscellaneous and Fees
The fee for applying for naturalization is $680. If you need a lawyer to represents you that may also cost you another thousand. When I told my American friends about the fees they are surprised about the fees. One friend told me that paying almost $700 to be naturalized is like buying your naturalization and as a permanent resident we have most of the rights of U.S. citizens. They may never understand because they are born here but for us immigrants it’s different.
English and Civic test
It is always important that you adhere to the appointment that was given to you for your interview. My interview was supposed to be at 830am. We left the house at 7am thinking that it is only an hour drive from my house, but I was greeted by the rush hour and traffic was horrendous and to top it all, it snowed about two inches causing more traffic. My wife was already worried and crying to tears because we might have to file another application and go to the same process again. She called the office and was told that it’s okay and understandable because of the inclement weather. We arrived at the USCIS office at 930 am and have to wait for two hours for our turn. Finally, my name was called and I was lead to a small office with camera. I was sworn in just like in the court that I am telling the truth and nothing but the truth. It was a very casual interview. After verifying my application I was told that we are now going to take the English test. The English test which has three components: reading, which you must read one out of three, sentences correctly to demonstrate the ability to read. Speaking, which test my ability to speak the English language and writing, which I have to write down one out of three sentences correctly to demonstrate the ability to write in English. Finally there is the civics test which is about the US history and its government. The officer told me that there were 10 questions but for me to be able to pass I have to answer 6 correct response which I did. It was a great feeling knowing that I passed all the tests because if you fail any portion of the test during your interview, you will be retested on the portion of the test that you failed within 90 days. Right there and then you will be given another appointment for the naturalization oath of allegiance.
Taking the Oath
Your citizenship is not complete if you did not take the oath. On this day, you can invite all your family and friends to witness the event. There is a short welcome message by the President and they also show all the famous immigrants that undergone the same thing. From Albert Einstein to Joseph Pulitzer to Madeleine Albright to Ang Lee these people had the most contribution in the field of science, politics, literature and film. This event is like a graduation ceremony which you will be called one by one and they will hand your certificate of naturalization from the judge and has the option to have a photo op.
Proud to be an American
For a long time, the United States welcomed new immigrants from across the globe. And this immigrants has helped the country shaped its form and history. I am proud to say that I am now part of it. But becoming a US citizen does not mean that it ends there. Being a naturalized US citizen has a big responsibilities and rights. Like the right to vote and run for public office and freedom to pursue “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.”
Reference:
- immigrationupdate.wordpress.com/famous-american-immigrants/
- www.votespa.com/portal/server.pt/community/register_to_vote/13518/voter_registration_
- www.uscis.gov/portal/site/uscis/menuitem.2182d258012d5eb62b6859c7526e0aa0/?vgnextoid=
