Trusted Citizenship Lawyers In Atlanta
For more than 60 years, Spar & Bernstein has helped thousands of immigrants on their journey to U.S. citizenship.
Today, we are proud to support clients throughout Atlanta and in nearby communities like Decatur, Marietta, Sandy Springs, and Duluth.
Our goal is simple: to explain the path to naturalization in a simple language and make the process less stressful for you and your family.
Why Choose Our Atlanta Citizenship & Naturalization Team?
Choosing the right attorney for your citizenship journey is an important decision. In a city as large and diverse as Atlanta, you’ll find multiple law firms. But do they offer the same level of care?
Our work goes far beyond filling out forms. We’ll review your eligibility for citizenship, organize and file all required documents at the right locations, keep an eye on potential law updates, and address challenges immediately.
Citizenship & Naturalization Trends in Atlanta
- Georgia has one of the fastest-growing immigrant populations in the Southeast, with 1,278,200 immigrant residents.
- There are 651,000 U.S.-born residents who live with at least one immigrant parent.
- Top immigrant homelands include Mexico, India, Guatemala, Jamaica, and Vietnam.
- Since 2014, Georgia has welcomed more than 130,000 new U.S. citizens through naturalization.
The Benefits Of Becoming A U.S. Citizen
Becoming a U.S. citizen isn’t only about obtaining a new status. It means voting in Georgia elections and opening doors to new careers.
Here’s what to expect beyond what a Green Card provides:
- Voting rights: You can participate in federal, state, and local elections in Georgia.
- More job opportunities: You can apply for government jobs and other roles available only to U.S. citizens.
- Stronger protection: Naturalization serves as a strong shield from deportation.
- Family sponsorship: You can petition to bring parents, siblings, and other relatives to the United States.
Are You Already A US Citizen?
Some people living in Atlanta may already qualify as citizens without knowing it. This may be the case if:
- They were born in the U.S.
- They were born abroad and at least one of their parents is a U.S. citizen.
- They obtained automatic citizenship as a minor when one of their parents naturalized.
If none of these apply to you and you’re willing to apply for citizenship, you’ll need to file Form N-400, Application for Naturalization.
Who Can Apply For Naturalization In Atlanta?
To apply for citizenship, you must meet a few key eligibility requirements, such as being at least 18 years old, having a Green Card for at least 5 years (or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen), and living within the jurisdiction of the USCIS Atlanta Field Office.
You must also prove good moral character and pass a citizenship test with specific questions about the U.S. government, history, and civics.
The Naturalization Process In Atlanta
The process of becoming a U.S. citizen in Atlanta includes several important steps.
- File Form N-400 with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) together with required supporting documents.
- Wait for Form I-797C, Notice of Action. Its purpose is to confirm that your application was received.
- You’ll be scheduled for a quick biometrics appointment where you’ll provide fingerprints and a photo to confirm your identity.
- Go for your citizenship interview at the USCIS Atlanta Field Office, where you’ll complete the English and civics test.
- If approved, attend your Oath Ceremony, which marks the final step in becoming a U.S. citizen.
Challenges Our Atlanta Citizenship Lawyers Can Help You Overcome
Even if you qualify for U.S. citizenship, you can face various obstacles. What can you expect? How can we help you clear thr hurdles?
English & Civics Test Concerns
Tests can make you feel unprepared, and you can risk failing your naturalization interview. Our team will connect you with prep resources in Atlanta and will hold mock interviews to build your confidence.
Residence & Travel Gaps
If you’ve been out of the country for long stretches, this may raise questions about maintaining your permanent residence. We’ll help show that your life is still rooted here in the U.S.
Missed Appointments
Failing to attend biometrics or interview appointments can delay your application or even lead to denial. We’ll help you reschedule your appointment so your case stays on track.
Legal Or Immigration Issues
Arrests or prior immigration violations can make you ineligible for U.S. citizenship because USCIS is likely to scrutinize your application more closely. Our Atlanta citizenship attorneys will evaluate your background and build a strong strategy to fight for approval.
Dedicated Atlanta Citizenship & Naturalization Lawyers Supporting Your Journey
Take the next step toward U.S. citizenship with a team that stands by you from the get-go to the last step of the process.
- Over six decades guiding immigrants through complex U.S. immigration laws
- Thousands of clients in Georgia and nationwide who achieved legal status with our support
- Comprehensive services and compassionate approach
Atlanta Citizenship & Naturalization FAQsÂ
Where Will My Citizenship Interview Take Place In Atlanta?
Most citizenship interviews take place at the USCIS Atlanta Field Office, 2150 Parklake Drive NE, Atlanta, GA 30345. Â
What Happens At The Citizenship Interview?
During the interview, a USCIS officer will review your application, verify your eligibility for naturalization, and give you the English and civics test.Â
How Long Does The Naturalization Process Take In Atlanta?
Processing times vary, but on average, Form N-400 handled by the USCIS Atlanta Field Office takes approximately eight months. Timelines may be shorter or longer depending on case complexity, background checks, and USCIS backlogs.Â
What Happens If I Fail The English Or Civics Test In Atlanta?
If you don’t pass one or both parts of the test at your first interview, USCIS will schedule a second test 60 to 90 days after the first one. If you fail again, your application can be denied.
What Are The Benefits Of Becoming A U.S. Citizen In Atlanta?
U.S. citizenship gives you the right to vote in local, state, and federal elections; access government jobs; and have stronger protection against deportation. Citizens also have the right to sponsor parents, siblings, and children for immigration to the U.S.
Can My Criminal Record Affect My Citizenship Application?
Certain convictions may impact your eligibility for naturalization, but this doesn’t mean they’ll automatically disqualify you. Share the details with our Atlanta citizenship attorney. We’ll evaluate your background and build a legal strategy to maximize your chances of approval.
Do I Need A Lawyer To Apply For Citizenship In Atlanta?
You can apply on your own, but working with an Atlanta citizenship and naturalization lawyer reduces the risk of mistakes, delays, and denial. We handle paperwork, prepare you for interviews, and address complications such as travel gaps, legal issues, or previous denials.
How Much Does It Cost To Apply For Citizenship In Atlanta?
You must pay $760 for paper filing and $710 if you’re filing your application online. Legal fees are separate and vary depending on the law firm and how complex your case is. During a consultation, our team will explain what to expect.
Can I Apply For Citizenship If I Lived Outside The US For Long Periods?
Extended absences — for example, if you lived abroad for more than six months — may be an issue when you must prove continuous residence. Our Atlanta naturalization attorneys will collect and present tax records, property ownership, or family connections as evidence of your ties with the United States.
What Documents Do I Need For My Citizenship Interview In Atlanta?
Bring your Green Card, appointment notice, identification, tax returns, and any documents listed in your USCIS letter. If you have prior arrests or immigration history, bring certified court dispositions and immigration records.
What’s The Oath Ceremony Like?
The Oath Ceremony is the final step in becoming a U.S. citizen, where you take the Oath of Allegiance. After it, you’ll receive your Certificate of Naturalization and officially be a U.S. citizen.
Can I Bring My Parents And Children To Atlanta As A US Citizen?
Once you become a U.S. citizen, you can petition for your parents, children, and siblings to immigrate to the U.S. This is one of the most valued benefits of citizenship, because it helps families reunite and stay together.
What If USCIS Denies My Citizenship Application?
A denial is just an obstacle on your path to citizenship. You may be able to appeal, reapply, or request a hearing with USCIS. Our Atlanta U.S. citizenship and naturalization lawyers will review the reasons for denial and decide what the next steps should be.
Can I Apply For Citizenship If I Receive Public Benefits In Atlanta?
Yes. Benefits like Medicaid or food assistance do not automatically disqualify you from naturalization. USCIS will focus on your overall eligibility, your moral character, and whether you meet the legal requirements for citizenship.
Bradford H. Bernstein, a second-generation leader at Law Offices of Spar & Bernstein, P.C., has helped over 100,000 clients with immigration and personal injury issues. Brad joined the firm in 1993, became a partner in 1997, and assumed leadership in 2000 after Harry Spar retired.
View Brad's Bio