Law Office of Tanya M. Lee 1.480.559.9529

Posts Tagged ‘requirements’

I was recently interviewed by Attorney Shimane Smith on his radio show, “Nothing But the Truth.” I fielded questions about the controversy surrounding President Barack Obama’s birth certificate, specifically why under the U.S. Constitution it matters whether he was born in Hawaii or Indonesia. This is a fascinating aspect of nationality law, and I explain the constitutional requirement that a U.S. President be a “natural-born citizen,” not a naturalized citizen or a U.S. citizen born “abroad.” I also discuss how this requirement has relevance to both John McCain and Arnold Schwarzenegger as well.

In the second part of the interview, I talk about options for immigration relief  for victims of domestic violence as well as some of the immigration consequences of criminal conduct, including removal (deportation) for even long-term Permanent Residents (green card holders) for seemingly minor violations or misdemeanors. Please click on the audio file below to hear the interview.

In an upcoming post I will share a second interview where I discuss marriage fraud and tips for a successful green card interview for foreign nationals married to U.S. citizens.

In order to become a naturalized citizen, an applicant must demonstrate that s/he can read, write, and speak basic English and answer correctly a certain number of American civics questions.

Exception to the Rules

Some people are exempt from this requirement, such as age 50+ who have been green card holders for 20 years, or those who are age 55+ who have been green card holders for 15 years.  In addition, people who have a physical or mental impairment may qualify for a waiver of the tests.

To see if you are eligible for a waiver, and for any other legal assistance with citizenship, green cards, and visas, contact The Law Office of Tanya M. Lee, PLLC. 480-559-9LAW;  info@aboutUSvisas.com.