The process of adjusting your status to permanent resident and becoming a naturalized U.S. citizen can both be confusing. There are many steps to take, and the law is not always clear to people who do not practice immigration law.
The COVID-19 lockdown created a backlog in many USCIS offices, causing further problems. Much of the paperwork related to green cards and citizenship can be done on the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services’ (USCIS) website, but until recently, many users found the site hard to use. Hopefully, the experience will be better now that USCIS has updated its website, as the Miami Herald reports.
Improvements to the USCIS website
The agency says it has improved the site’s usability and navigation to help users file and manage applications and petitions. For example, the new site has better availability of Spanish-language and other multilingual resources for users who do not speak English as a first language. The site now features a link to start a new account, or access an existing one, making it simple to find your petition. There is also a new feature called “Explore My Options” to help you find out what immigration benefits you are entitled to.
Of the several forms you can fill out and submit online, there are:
- Application for Naturalization
- Application for Replacement of Naturalization/Citizenship Document
- Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status
- Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status
Filing online has several advantages, especially the convenience and time it can save. However, if you lack experience with these forms, you may struggle to fill them out properly without legal help. An experienced immigration attorney can help you make sure you choose the correct application, and that it is filled out correctly.
