Applying for Citizenship (green card, Iraq, interview, money)

[EuroExpat]

Anyone going through their citizenship process? What are your thoughts about the process?

I just sent in my application on Monday. Let's see how long it'll take, they say approximately 6-7 months. The application seemed more straight forward and needed less documents than applying for permanent residency. Can't wait for everyone in our family to be citizens, it's been weird having a husband and a son with a different nationality.

[chilaili]

I used a lawyer to help me with my application. Expensive but well worth it. They were very conscientious and supportive. I actually got my interview scheduled within about 4 months of my filing and the ceremony about 6 weeks later. The interviewer was a real character but very nice and kept thanking me for coming. I was tempted to say, "Thank you for having me," but wasn't sure he'd see the funny side.

Compared to the green card process it's definitely a simpler procedure but I guess the former does weed out the less-than-dedicated.

[bluebeard]

I think you really only need the lawyer if you have problems or spare money laying around you don't need.

[Threestep]

It took me not quite two months from start to oath. Everyone was extremely polite if not friendly. Have all your back up documentation with you. The citizen test is a breeze. Depending on your location - spend the night as appointments can get shuffled around for no-show or no-go.

[Jaggy001]

Originally Posted by Threestep

It took me not quite two months from start to oath. Everyone was extremely polite if not friendly. Have all your back up documentation with you. The citizen test is a breeze. Depending on your location - spend the night as appointments can get shuffled around for no-show or no-go.

Wow .. that was quick ... took me around 9 months.

Same for me ... everyone was very polite, friendly and professional.

[Peter the Brit]

Just filed for daughter in Tampa and in 3 weeks she had fingerprints and they advised a wait of another 4 weeks to interview.

[EuroExpat]

Originally Posted by Peter the Brit

Just filed for daughter in Tampa and in 3 weeks she had fingerprints and they advised a wait of another 4 weeks to interview.

Wow that was fast!! I don't think they work as fast in this area.. But I'll keep my fingers crossed.

[tigerwoodsyall]

The process is not really that hard actually, the only time you would need a lawyer would be if you have a special situation. If you have kept your nose clean and out of trouble I see no reason why you just can't do it on your own without a lawyer.

I filled out the form and did everything when I was in Iraq (didnt have to pay the fee since I was active duty). The whole process took like 4-6 months I think (can't remember really). The interview was really easy too , I think the guy only asked me like 2 questions, and the it lasted like 5 mintues. I think me being prior military had something to do with it though, since he was a vet too.

[Peter the Brit]

Due to the increase in fees and bad economy the numbers are way down and process is now much quicker
I hear there may be another increase in fees in the pipeline so keep a watchout!

[timfountain]

Any ideas what the timeframe is in TX, I was counting on 4-6 months. I just got my receipt back from the filing.

- Tim