Legal Question in Immigration Law in California

Applying for Citizenship

Hello

I'm 28 years old male. I had green card for almost 8 years.

I am about to apply for citizenship but I am unclear about qualifications on Selective Service and continue of residency.

First, I didn't register the SS (selective service) Is this important when you apply for the citizenship? I'm too old to register. What do I do?

Second, I made a long trip to my native country. I spend 10 months there last year and came back to U.S. Is this going to disrupt my continue of residency? If it disrupts my continue of residency, do I have to wait another 5 years to apply for the citizenship?

Third, is it possible to view my records in INS office? I want to make sure that my application answers match my records. I heard that if information doensn't match correctly INS will turn down my application.


Asked on 3/19/03, 6:21 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Nora Milner Milner & Markee, LLP

Re: Applying for Citizenship

Yours is a case which should be reviewed carefully with a qualified immmigration attorney, in person, or on the phone. The reason is that there are three big legal issues which tend to overlap and you must understand how they affect each other. You have an issue of loss of continuity of residency since you were out of the US over 6 mos; that can indeed affect the 30 mos of continuous physical presence you need. Your issue of Selective Service may not be as much of a problem, but you must be told the details of this issue. Finally, you are not allowed to see your files at the interview. You have to file a request under the Freedom of Information Act to get a copy of them. I STRONGLY suggest you make a telephonic or in person consult on your case before going to the interview.

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Answered on 3/20/03, 2:00 pm


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