Can a Canadian Become a US Citizen Through Marriage?
Marriage is a significant milestone in many people’s lives, and it can also be a pathway to citizenship in certain countries. For Canadians looking to expand their horizons and gain access to the opportunities available in the United States, the question of whether they can become a US citizen through marriage is of great importance. This article will explore the process and requirements for Canadians to obtain US citizenship through marriage, highlighting the steps involved and the factors that can influence the outcome.
The process of becoming a US citizen through marriage is known as naturalization. To qualify for naturalization, a Canadian must meet certain requirements set by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The first step is to obtain a green card, which allows the Canadian spouse to legally live and work in the United States. Once the green card is obtained, the process of applying for citizenship can begin.
Here are the key steps for a Canadian to become a US citizen through marriage:
1.
Marriage to a US citizen: The Canadian must be legally married to a US citizen. The marriage must be genuine and not entered into solely for the purpose of obtaining citizenship.
2.
Green card application: The Canadian spouse must apply for a green card through Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative. The US citizen spouse must file this form on the Canadian’s behalf.
3.
Adjustment of status: Once the green card is approved, the Canadian spouse can adjust their status to that of a lawful permanent resident (LPR) in the United States.
4.
Wait for the two-year conditional residence period: After obtaining the green card, the Canadian spouse must wait for two years before applying for citizenship. During this period, the marriage must remain valid and genuine.
5.
Remove conditional residence: After two years, the Canadian spouse can apply to remove the conditional residence by filing Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence. If the marriage is still valid and genuine, the conditional residence will be removed, and the Canadian spouse can then apply for citizenship.
6.
Apply for citizenship: Finally, the Canadian spouse can apply for US citizenship by filing Form N-400, Application for Naturalization. This application requires the applicant to meet certain eligibility requirements, such as being a lawful permanent resident for at least five years (or three years if married to a US citizen), having good moral character, and passing an English and civics test.
Several factors can influence the outcome of a Canadian’s application for US citizenship through marriage. These include the validity of the marriage, the Canadian spouse’s ability to meet the requirements for naturalization, and any previous immigration violations or criminal convictions.
In conclusion, it is indeed possible for a Canadian to become a US citizen through marriage. By following the proper steps and meeting the necessary requirements, a Canadian spouse can obtain US citizenship and enjoy the benefits that come with it. However, it is essential to consult with an immigration attorney or a qualified expert to ensure that the process is carried out correctly and efficiently.
