ForumTitleContentMemberSexCountryDate/Time
US Citizenship General DiscussionApplying for US Passport - Certificate of Citizenship
Yes, you need to submit the original if you apply for your passport through a post office or via mail. If mail, I strongly recommend to certify your mail. Copies are not accepted.

If you have a ticket that says you're traveling within 14 days, you can request same-day processing at one of the very few Passport Agencies across the country. One is in Washington, D.C. Anyway, you will need to setup an appointment via phone, and then you need to bring your certificate with you to your appointment. You will get it back the same day.

Hope this helps,

goran
GoranMale02009-11-27 20:54:00
US Citizenship General DiscussionWarning about naturalization ceremony

That's good and it's nice it was a joke and Sweden is safe - viva ABBA - viva Agnetha

BUT there is the point that the Wisconsin Germans did fight against Germany with no compunction - so it seems that people do fall in line with their new country when required
and to a surprisng degree

Perhaps we shouldnt be surprised as we have the example of the American civil war where sometimes brother killed brother with relish as soon as they had chosen sides.

Strange folk us humans. I wish I was a duck sometimes.


Strange, indeed, and I agree with you. Being "re-spawned" as a rubber duck, in particular, would be interesting. :)
GoranMale02010-07-18 14:59:00
US Citizenship General DiscussionWarning about naturalization ceremony

haha - no it was the Swedish chap who said he would go to war against Sweden no problem and his reasoning was that the USA would win... I imagined him nuking his mom and brothers and sisters and thinking it was worth it to get USC.
:


While I must admit that British humor is a bit "unique," I wouldn't imagine that my comment could be taken that seriously. Really? US and Sweden in a war? If that happened, we (as in the world) would have much more serious problems to worry about.
GoranMale02010-07-18 14:07:00
US Citizenship General DiscussionWarning about naturalization ceremony
Alan,

I think you're right. It's an extremely relative question, and also a very personal question. I've been lucky enough to have experienced many cultures on many different continents, and to me, the U.S. is as good as it gets. All countries have pros and cons. Their weights, I believe, depends on what you value as an individual.

I'm taking the oath on July 15th. I will remain a Swedish citizen, and therefore have dual-citizenship. However, I am fully aware (and willing) to renounce my allegiance to Sweden. In other words, if the U.S. ever declared war on Sweden, I will fight for the U.S. Which, I don't think, is a particularly bad idea considering the military powers of each country tongue.gif

Of course, Sweden will always have a place in my heart, but I would never have sought U.S. Citizenship if I was not willing to be fully loyal to the U.S. and accept the U.S. Culture.

Cheers,

Goran

QUOTE (saywhat @ May 29 2009, 12:37 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (jasman0717 @ Jan 15 2009, 02:56 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Anticlimactic or not, he is still a citizen of the greatest country in the world good.gif


On what basis ? A certain Austrian gentleman thought it was a good idea to trumpet his country and people as superior in every way - and look where that ended up.

I will be a dual citizen of the U.S. and the U.K. but claiming superiority over other countries is not a necessary qualification unless one is Rush Limbaugh fan. Mitt Romney says the U.S. is the 'finest country in the history of the world', but a stroll round downtown Seattle at midnight (dare you), might have people wondering about that.
On the basis of the ratio of doctors to patients (4 times as many as the U.K.), and the quality and cost of care, France for instance, beats the U.K. and the U.S. easily - so the criteria is important

So in my book it's ok to point out some aspects of the U.S. and say they are superb (and I do), but fauning over America as some kind of heaven on earth is a bit yucky and not realistic unless one comes from a 3rd world country where becoming an American (or a citizen of anywhere in the West), really is salvation.

On the basis of the quality and gravitas of the citizenship ceremony, it seems the US has some way to go, and it sounds like a sausage machine with little regard to the importance of the occasion to the individual . It would probably have more solemnity to do it at the end of the interview on a one to one basis with relatives present then


GoranMale02009-05-29 20:16:00
US Citizenship General DiscussionPassport book waiting time

User Name..........Location...........Application..........Passport Rcvd.....Certificate Back.............Service
Goran..............Richmond, VA..........07/15/09...............09/05/09.............09/05/09.............Normal
raleighn400........Durham, NC............07/30/09...............09/03/09.............09/05/09.............Normal
Rebelheart'son.....Atlanta, GA...........07/31/09...............08/31/09.............09/02/09.............Normal
Tini 27............Brooklyn,NY...........08/04/09...............08/14/09.............08/14/09.............Expedited
Sami76.............Atlanta, GA...........08/07/09...............08/28/09.............08/31/09.............Normal
jeangab75..........Durham, NC............08/17/09 ..............--/--/--.............--/--/--.............Normal
so2008.............Tampa, FL.............08/17/09 ..............--/--/--.............--/--/--.............Normal
Annelizabeth.......New Albany, IN........08/24/09...............--/--/--.............--/--/--.............Normal
Kathryn41..........Stockbridge, GA.......08/28/09...............--/--/--.............--/--/--.............Normal
l.j./1999..........Brooklyn, NY..........08/29/09...............--/--/--.............--/--/--.............Normal
wifey246...........Pomona, CA............08/29/09...............--/--/--.............--/--/--.............Normal
cookiee............Miami, FL.............09/01/09...............--/--/--.............--/--/--.............Expedited
GoranMale02009-09-09 17:38:00
US Citizenship General Discussionapplying for citizen ship after divorce
QUOTE (Quarismo @ Feb 15 2009, 03:24 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Stella08 @ Feb 15 2009, 04:22 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Sounds like you got it all figured out.

You can file for citizenship after 5 years as a LPR.




yes , i figured out every thing , i am not that immigrant that dont know what's its right is , united states citizen doesn't mean u piss on newly immigrant whenever u like , i have read alot of stories here where , innocent immigrants like me got trapped and dont know what to do ... God blessed me and saved my buttt


Hi Quarismo,

I think most people on this forum try to help each other out. Yes, there are exceptions, but I think this website is very helpful in general. Of course, no one should rely on the information posted here as if it was written by a lawyer. If someone is doubtful and do not feel comfortable interpreting the law, he or she should contact an immigration lawyer.

The postings here should be considered as "experiences." Not interpretations of the law. Most of the postings relating to your posts in this thread were to get clarification on your situation in an attempt to relate your experience. Not to talk down to you in any way.

Just an "outsider's" observation. whistling.gif

God speed!

Goran
GoranMale02009-02-15 16:02:00
US Citizenship General DiscussionInterview Document Check List (N-659)
QUOTE (Stella08 @ Mar 19 2009, 06:45 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I brought tons of papers to prove every little thing to the interview. All the IO wanted to see was my passport, greencard and driver's license. That was it. I also had passport pictures from my N-400 at home (I got a set of six) and I took them along. I didn't need them, the officer had the ones I had sent in. About the name: I had posted a while back that I have a German Umlaut in my maiden name. I spelled it the way you spell it when there's no "Umlaut" available and I was worried about that little inconsistency. I printed out several explanations that both spellings are the same thing (Umlaut = vowel + e). The officer didn't worry about it (maybe, too, because I haven't used my maiden name in almost 15 years).

If I were you I would bring anything you think of to the interview. If you need it, you got it right there and there won't be a delay. If the officer doesn't ask to see it, just take home with you. blush.gif

Congratulations on your interview letter! kicking.gif


Thanks for the reply, Stella. I appreciate your feedback. I agree. It seems that the better prepared you are, the less chance there is they will ask you for any additional documentation innocent.gif After all, I have two months to prepare my documentation before my interview date! The Norfolk office must run a little bit slower since they are so close to the beach, and the weather is getting warmer...
GoranMale02009-03-19 17:50:00
US Citizenship General DiscussionInterview Document Check List (N-659)
Hello everyone!

Today, I received my notice to appear for an interview, Request for Applicant to Appear for Naturalization Initial Interview (I-797C, Notice of Action form). I do not have a problem with the documents they list on the I-797C, which states to bring:

1) This letter
2) Your Alien Registration Card (green card).
3) Any evidence of Selective Service Registration.
4) Your passport and/or any other documents you used in connection with any entries into the United States.
5) Those items noted below which are applicable to you:

If applying for NATURALIZATION AS THE SPOUSE of a United States Citizen... [does not apply to me]
If applying for NATURALIZATION as a member of of the United States Armed Forces... [does not apply to me]


I am fine with these requirements. However, there is a form, N-659, Naturalization Interview Document Check List, revision 01/22/07, that is enclosed with the I-797C. My questions are:

Regarding bullet 1 on the I-797C - "You must be properly attired and bring:"
* Although not required, it is recommended that you bring two additional passport-style photos (2"x2")...
Question: For those of you that had the same check list enclosed, did you bring an extra set? If not, did the USCIS give you any trouble?

Regarding inconsistency between passport last name and green card last name
On my Swedish passport, my last name states "Gustafsson"
On my Green Card, my last name states "Gustavsson"
The correct spelling of my last name is "Gustavsson." Long story, but when my mom took my dad's last name, they incorrectly recorded it with an "f", rather than a "v". My brother's and sister's Swedish passports state Gustavsson. Somehow, my last name was recorded based on my mom's incorrectly recorded last name. With the exception of my Swedish Passport and my Swedish Driver's License, I always use "Gustavsson," including when I applied for my Green Card some 10 years ago. Back then, the INS recorded my name in their system as Gustavsson, and had no problem that my passport actually says "Gustafsson."
Question: Has anyone else had this problem? If I explain this to the IO during the interview, do you think there will be any problems/delays in my application?

I appreciate any feedback.

Best regards,

Goran
GoranMale02009-03-19 17:33:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresHelp the italian!
QUOTE (bar1kenoby @ Feb 16 2009, 06:08 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hi,
I need to have few information.
I never met my girl cuz a lot of reasons but now the time is coming and we are planning about a K-1 visa.

I knew her online and I helped her to come out from a bad story with her ex and little by little we fell in love for each other...is 1yr and half that we are always together online constantly 24/7...spending even the time that we sleep online on camera....so I was thinking that now is the time to meet each other and try to make her my wife if everything when I'll be there, will be good like I think.

1. About the proofs that USCIS ask to have...can I use present's receives, letters and other stuff like that, coming from before the day that we met in person?

2. Can I say at the POE that I'm coming to visit my friend?

3. I have problems to find the prices of all the k-1 procedure....how much is going to be +or-?

4. How long I have to wait in Italy afther that I'll have my 1st trip in the USA?

Thank U


This is pure speculation on my part, but I would assume that before you are eligible to apply for a K-1 visa, you will need to be married. The Catch-22 here is that I don't think the USCIS is that keen on you entering the U.S. for the (stated) purpose of getting married. If you go to www.amazon.com, you may find some helpful books about your situation and how you may proceed. Also, it doesn't hurt (other than in your wallet) to contact an immigration lawyer. This may be something that's better done by your significant other here in the US, since a U.S. lawyer is probably better versed in this country's immigration laws.

Good luck!

Goran
GoranMale02009-02-16 18:20:00
Removing Conditions on Residency General DiscussionPart 5. Info about Children - From I-751
Hello All,

I'm almost finished with the I-751 packet for my Ukranian wife and 14 y/o step daughter. One hangup though, in part 5 on the I-751 application it asks for "If in U.S. give address/immigration status" -
I understand the address part (she lives with us so I put down our home address) but for the immigration status would it be Conditional Permanent Residence Card?
I don't want to blow it at this late stage in the game -
Any help?

Thanks,

Paul D
Richmond, VA

Paul DNot TellingUkraine2009-01-11 16:58:00
Removing Conditions on Residency General DiscussionConfused
I mailed my wife's and stepdaughter's I-751 to Vermont 2 weeks ago. I received the packet back today with the check I had written for $625.00 ($465 & $80 & $80).
USCIS said the check was not the proper fee. My wife came over on a K-1 and my step-daughter on a K-2 visa at the same time - both were listed on the I-751 - my wife on Part 1 and my step-daughter on Part 5 of the I-751 -they both received their green cards at the same time.
I am confused - I thought the fee was correct?
Help!

Edited by Paul D, 04 February 2009 - 08:27 PM.

Paul DNot TellingUkraine2009-02-04 20:24:00
Removing Conditions on Residency General DiscussionVirginia Attorney
Hi All,

It is looking like it will be necessary for me to hire an attorney to handle a I-751 problem -

Does anybody know of a good immigration attorney in Virginia ? - preferably in the Richmond area?

Thanks,

Paul
Paul DNot TellingUkraine2009-03-06 17:11:00
Removing Conditions on Residency General DiscussionAdvice Needed on I-751 Problem - Lawyer or Not?
I need some help on an I-751 problem that I am having with my wife and step-daughter.
In the summer of 2006 my future wife and step-daughter came from Ukraine on a K-1/K-2 visa - we married in August, 2006 and went through and got approved all the necessary forms, paperwork, appointments etc.
This January I mailed in the I-751 (single copy since my step-daughter came in the US at the same time as my wife) with Part 5 filled out. I sent in one check for the application fee ($465 plus $80 biometric fee for each of them).
The I-751 was returned to me for an improper fee - I then mailed the I-751 back with a 2 separate checks - one for $545 and one for $80.
Three weeks ago the $545 check was cashed, we received the one year extension for my wife and the biometric appointment for her was set up.
The next week (two weeks ago) we received a letter from USCIS that my step-daughter cannot be included in a joint petition filed by the parent since my step-daughter did not acquire conditional resident status concurrently with her mother - complete hogwash - copies of the passports with date of entry was enclosed with the I-751.
Going back and taking a look at the notice dates when my wife and step-daughter got their green cards - my wife's date was 3/7/07 and my step-daughter's date was 3/2/07 -
I called Immigration and was told to go to the local office and have them fix the problem - well, the two year time limit was due to expire and I couldn't make it to the Norfolk, VA office in time-
I called my local congressman's office and spoke with the immigration specialist - my daughter's file was in Colorado and my wife's file was in Vermont - after several days the immigration specialist from the congressman's office said that my daughter's application (green card) was processed before my wife's - as evidenced by the Notice Date of 3/2/07 for my daughter and 3/7/07 for my wife.
The congressman's office suggested I send in another I-751 just for my daughter this time - I prepared another I-751 for my daughter on 2/26/08 and attached a check for $545.00 with that application.
I took the envelope to the USPS on Friday morning 2/27/08 and purchased Express mail overnight to the Vermont Service Center - delivery was guaranteed by 3 PM Saturday 2/28/08 which would get the application to the Service Center within the two year date for my daughter (3/2/07 to 3/2/09).
Well, the post office screwed up and the I-751 wasn't delivered until Wednesday 3/4 - go figure!
Yesterday morning the $545 check was cashed by the Vermont Service Center-
My questions are -
1) Do I hire a lawyer right now to protect ourselves - I just do not have a good feeling about this since the Vermont Service Center received the I-751 after the cut-off date even though it was mailed in time (actually the 3rd mailing to them)
2) Do I wait a week more and see if the 1 year conditional resident status letter comes and if it does not then hire a lawyer -
3) If the conditional status letter comes do I still hire a lawyer given the fact that USCIS has totally screwed this I-751 up and why should they change now?
The congressman's representative said to notify her when the one year extension letter comes so she can have it "congressionally tagged".

I am totally pissed off and of course scared!

I have tried to do everything by the book and am totally frustrated -

What would you all do ?

Thanks,

Paul



Paul DNot TellingUkraine2009-03-08 19:37:00
Removing Conditions on Residency General DiscussionI sure could use some advice
Ken -

I am having the same problem - read my post from the other day -(Advice Needed on I-751 Problem - Lawyer or Not?) - same kind of situation -
Entered together on K-1/K-2 etc -

Pisses the s--- out of me !

My wife (also from Ukraine as your wife) says at least in Ukraine you can confront the people that screwed up -

Good luck,

Paul
Paul DNot TellingUkraine2009-03-10 05:45:00
Europe & Eurasia (except the UK and Russia)Calling Germany Mobile Phones
QUOTE (germangel @ Sep 3 2007, 03:36 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
try out a phonecard from Nobelcom.com... I'm not sure what the rates are for cell phones, but I can call land lines for about 1 cent per minute.


Thanks for the info, however, I am calling a cellphone, so it is a bit more expensive, but Nobelcom might work out. As for www.Peterzahlt.de I am pretty sure it does not work for cellphones or at least I could not get it to work.
FettmanMaleRussia2007-09-04 10:31:00
Europe & Eurasia (except the UK and Russia)Calling Germany Mobile Phones
Hey, my current Russian girlfriend is studying in Germany and uses her cellphone for all calls. She does not have a landline. She is also using Symio, which charges outgoing calls by the minute. Incoming calls are free. So, my question is, does anyone have a service or provider that can beat 0.20 USD a minute? Any advice would be great. Thanks!

- Steven
FettmanMaleRussia2007-08-28 14:39:00
US Citizenship General DiscussionN-400 filers with ANY traffic tickets!
QUOTE (nocturnalbeat @ Feb 8 2009, 07:09 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Thanks for the info Goran. The reason why I am taking the copies of both court dispositions on my two tickets is because I did not disclose them on the N-400 application, and thus having proof that those incidents were satisfied and dismissed during the Interview should add to my credibility when I inform the IO about such infractions.


I think that's a good idea. Never hurts to bring it all with you in case they ask for it. I had two tickets as well. I got the court disposition from one court (VA), however, the other court (NC) couldn't find my tickets under any "spelling" of my name. Anywho, I disclosed on the N-400 app that I did get two tickets, and if they really want a court disposition for that second ticket in North Carolina, they're going to have to pull some government strings.
GoranMale02009-02-08 19:23:00
US Citizenship General DiscussionN-400 filers with ANY traffic tickets!
QUOTE (nocturnalbeat @ Feb 8 2009, 06:44 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I came across a very interesting article in regards to the above described topic. Please pay particular close attention to pages 10-13.

Must have Acrobat Reader to view the file:



http://www.abanet.or.../summer2005.pdf



FYI - Check out the newly released N-400 instructions (attached to this post). Especially, look at page 5, which states that you do not have to provide court dispositions of traffic tickets < $500 and assuming they are non-alcohol and non-drug related traffic stops. In other words, USCIS do not care, and I think the bulletin you found may be outdated and/or originated from a law firm wanting to scare possible N-400 applicants to seek their legal help.
GoranMale02009-02-08 18:57:00
US Citizenship General DiscussionFile N-400 End-Jan
QUOTE (wil @ Feb 9 2009, 04:57 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Thank you Goran.

We downloaded the instruction... (TRUNCATED TO SAVE SPACE) ... How is your status? Did you receive NOA1 yet?


Hi Wil!

I think you will be just fine! Actually, I think my application would probably have gotten to the Texas NBC faster if I has sent it via VSC, rather than directly via USPS "priority" mail. I sent my application on Saturday 1/31, and didn't get to Texas until 2/5 (last Thursday). So, I will probably see an NOA in my mail sometime this week.

If you'd like, you're welcome to add your "stats" to our ongoing "January Filers'" list. You can find it here:

http://www.visajourn...h...9803&st=120

Just leave a message with your current application processing dates (see the "grid" post in the thread), and one of us will add you to the list.

Cheers,

Goran
GoranMale02009-02-09 19:11:00
US Citizenship General DiscussionFile N-400 End-Jan
Hi Wil!

Yes, as of 1/22/09, all N-400 applications are supposed to be mailed to one of two "lockbox" facilities. One is in Arizona, the other in Texas. If you go to the USCIS website and pull up the current instructions for the N-400 application, it will tell you which lockbox to send it to depending on which state you reside in.

Cases sent to th "old" service centers, in your case Vermont, are automatically forwarded to the appropriate lockbox, which is taken care of the National Benefits Center.

Once your case has gone through "due course," you interview will most likely be held at the local USCIS office closest to you. However, before then, the National Benefits Center will do all the background checks, etc, and basically give your local office a "thumbs up" or "thumbs down" decision on your case even before you get called to the interview.

Hope this helps,

Goran
GoranMale02009-02-09 16:34:00
US Citizenship General DiscussionN400 part 11, signature question
QUOTE (cookiee @ Feb 1 2009, 10:38 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I have a question on part 11 of N400 form. The instructions clearly says, "You should sign your full name without abbreviating it or using initials".

The question is should I just write my full name anyway, or should I write both my full name and short-signature beside it. Any insight will be much appreciated helpsmilie.gif


Hi there Cookiee!

I was pondering the same as I was about to sign my application. My "real" signature is nothing that can be misunderstood a legible. It's a scribble at best. I asked around my office and took a poll as to how my co-workers would sign. The result was to sign my name legible, i.e., spell it out, full first name + full middle name + full last name. If they want to argue when I have my interview, I will just say that technically it doesn't matter what my signature looks like, as long as it is signed by me, and I think that is the purpose of the very next "box" on the application - for the applicant to sign the application in front of an immigration officer.

Cheers,

Goran
GoranMale02009-02-09 19:27:00
US Citizenship General DiscussionHow can i get court copy for paid traffic ticket?
QUOTE (moonhunt @ Feb 11 2009, 06:27 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
...
If USCIS adjudicator ask for it, and you don't have the documents/evidence with you,
it will delay the decision no matter what.


No doubt! The more information you have prepared, the better off you are. However, if it so happens that a court cannot find your traffic ticket and produce a court-signed disposition, which, believe it or not, happens, I think you have some ground to stand on, citing the Service's own instructions.

That's all...

Cheers,

Goran
GoranMale02009-02-11 18:41:00
US Citizenship General DiscussionHow can i get court copy for paid traffic ticket?

According to the N-400 instructions I downloaded (and attached to my previous post above), it states:

"Note that unless a traffic incident was alcohol or drug related, you do not need to submit documentation for traffic fines and incidents that did not involve an actual arrest if the only penalty was a fine of less than $500 or points on your driver's license."

In other words, you do not need to submit a court disposition if the ticket was less than $500 or resulted in points on your driver's license.

Like many on this forum, English is my second language. However, I am fairly certain that I have interpreted this piece of written federal lingo correctly.

In my humble opinion innocent.gif

Cheers,

Goran

PS. Of course, I am not a lawyer, and am just expressing my own personal interpretation and opinion on this matter. I.e., go with your own "gut."
GoranMale02009-02-11 16:40:00
US Citizenship General DiscussionHow can i get court copy for paid traffic ticket?
skoopie,

According to the new N-400 instructions (effective 1/22/2009), you do not need to provide evidence of your traffic tickets if they were under $500 and did not involve alcohol or drugs (See page 5, Step 2, "Other Documents"). I attached the instructions to this post, but it is also available here:

http://www.uscis.gov...00045f3d6a1RCRD

Cheers,

Goran



QUOTE (skoopie @ Feb 1 2009, 01:15 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
i'm waiting for my interview letter but wanted to know if anyone knows how to go about getting court documentation to show that traffic tickets have been paid? i have about 5-6 various traffic from different townships but all have been paid (some by going to court to avoid points).

Thanks!


GoranMale02009-02-03 21:06:00
US Citizenship General DiscussionN400 Form Question!!!
QUOTE (pars3221 @ Feb 11 2009, 08:03 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hello again,

on part 8, section G
"How many times has your current spouse been married (including annulled marriages) am I putting 1?

this is the first marriage for both me and my wife.

Sorry for the stupidt question, but these damn forms make you go nuts!!!

Thanks


Hi Pars3221,

I filled it out the same way. Our marriage is the first for each of us as well.

Cheers,

Goran
GoranMale02009-02-11 20:24:00
US Citizenship General DiscussionN400 Question (First time poster!)
QUOTE (Stella08 @ Feb 13 2009, 12:40 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I think the question is, what do they consider a crime or offense? Does a traffic violation count as crime? I think there might be some legal lingo that differentiates between the two. More importantly I was wondering why they would ask a question like that. Do they want you to self-implicate you? And is there ANYBODY out there who never did anything wrong? Speeding? Jaywalking? Littering? Driving with a vehicle where a light wasn't working properly? Not coming to a complete stop at a stop sign? Keeping something you found instead of turning it in? Having a beer under age? And the list goes on and on. Some things you probably never did. Others you might have done, on purpose or by accident.

I think the main reason for this question is, that the United States still has the right to revoke your citizenship if it turns out later that you "forgot" to mention something like "I have killed somebody", "I have set a house on fire", "I robbed a bank" and so on on your application. Then they can say, you lied on your application and because of this your naturalization is invalid. But I don't think they care about little infractions that everybody might do at one point and time, but for which nobody will hold you responsible later on if you didn't get caught right away.

I wrote before that I can be overly correct. So I totally understand where you're coming from. And I think if you answer "yes" to this question, you always have a chance to explain your answer. But I also think if you answer "no", it's going to be o.k. USCIS hopefully knows that nobody is perfect and nobody never makes a mistake.



Well put, Stella08. good.gif
GoranMale02009-02-13 14:37:00
US Citizenship General DiscussionN400 Question (First time poster!)
QUOTE (RomanVT @ Feb 12 2009, 06:42 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Am I to report if I have gone over the speed limit while driving before or had a drink of alcohol before I turned the age of 21 without being arrested?


Hi Roman,

I can understand your dilemma. When I filled out my N-400, I had the tendency to read into the questions the same way. I ended up taking a poll around work, asking how they would answer the questions.

I came to the following conclusion. It is better to be "overly" honest and disclose everything. From what I understand, the immigration officer that conducts your interview will give you the option to change the application if something is incorrect. Note though, that you cannot purposely give false answers to see if you can "get away with it", and if the IO becomes suspicious of your good moral character (i.e., lying on an application), expect the to change it to the other answer.

If you answer "yes" in the question, and attach an explanation why you answered "yes," I am fairly certain that they will change the answer from "yes" to "no" during your interview.

Of course, this is just my personal opinion and statement. I am not a lawyer.

Cheers,

Goran

PS. Did you drink while you were under 21 and in Germany? I thought the drinking age there is 16? kicking.gif
GoranMale02009-02-12 19:17:00
US Citizenship General DiscussionWhen can I apply?
QUOTE (henry34florida @ Feb 15 2009, 02:09 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hi,

I am eligible to apply for US Citizenship because I am married to an American citizen and will have been a permanent resident for 3 years on 07/27/2009.

My question is this. Do I have to wait to apply until the 3 year anniversary of my being a permanent resident? Or can I apply before that date to get the process going?

Thanks!


Hello Henry,

According to the N-400 application instructions, you may file up to 90 days before your "continuous residence" requirement is met. In your case, on or about April 27, 2009.

Hope this helps,

Goran

GoranMale02009-02-15 14:41:00
US Citizenship General Discussioncitizenship test/...???
QUOTE (Stella08 @ Feb 15 2009, 01:51 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I would hope that they would expect you as a new-citizen-to-be to know the current answer, even if it differs from the answer in the booklet they gave you. If they'll ask me one of those questions, I'm going to give them the answer which is correct since Jan. 20th. If the officer has any more questions about it, I always can tell him what was the correct answer before that date.


I agree with Stella. My understanding is that they expect you to answer with the currently seated politicians. The questions on their website have been updated with the current administration.
GoranMale02009-02-15 14:47:00
US Citizenship General DiscussionN400 question- Residence & Employment info
QUOTE (silvershadow212 @ Feb 16 2009, 05:55 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hi Goran,

Thank you for your input. I looked through my old paper & finally found all my leases so now I know when I moved out/in. Same thing w/ my ex employers I used few old pay checks to see around what time I started but not fore sure so I didn't use an exact date. I hope it won't be a problem. Also, I read in this forum that somebody had a problem, DMV registered him to vote but he didn't do it intentionally, that made me nervous too coz I don't remember ever received a vote registration & I've never voted since I'm not a US Citizen Duhhh headbonk.gif I'm being too paranoid right now. How can I make sure I'm not registered to vote? I don't remember what happened when I had my driver's license 9 years ago.

Thank you all.

Thanks,


Hello again, Silvershadow,

I agree that it certainly doesn't hurt to be cautious in this process and make sure all the "ducks" are lined up in a row. Less chance of having to explain stuff once your interview comes around. The less question marks you present to the USCIS, the less questions they will have for you innocent.gif

As for your question about whether you're registered to vote. Here in Virginia, we can go to our state's "State Board of Elections" website. They have a section on their website called "Voter Registration Status," where we can provide some personal information and see whether one is registered. I'm sure your state has something similar.

Cheers,

Goran
GoranMale02009-02-16 18:11:00
US Citizenship General DiscussionN400 question- Residence & Employment info
QUOTE (silvershadow212 @ Feb 16 2009, 01:52 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hello all,

First of, I want to thank everybody for this wonderful website. I'm in the process of filling out my N400 & I do have a question about Part 6 where it says residence & employment information. It asks for mm/dd/yyyy for both my residence & employmet in the last 5 years. I don't remember the exact day & month of my previous jobs. I've had like 3 jobs in the last 5 years. Same thing with my residence I moved like 3 times. Can't find my old leases. Is it a problem if I can't remember the exact day or month? Thanks for any help. headbonk.gif


Hello Silvershadow,

I do not know how "stringent" they are on those dates. I know they don't want you to be out of the country more than 6 months at a time, so if you're far from that number, I do not think you have to worry. You just have to state that you can't remember the exact dates, and also state "but it was no more than XXX days, or XX weeks."

Some sources that can aid you in your hunt for dates:

Your state's Department of Motor Vehicles - Ask for your driving record. In Virginia, this document will state your previous addresses and when you moved to new addresses (address request changes to the DMV).

Your credit report - I would recommend pulling your credit report from all three agencies (Experian, Transunion, and Equifax)... They have more information than you know about your previous addresses.

Your passport - You should be able to get dates from departure and arrival stamps.

Airline/Travel Websites - If you purchase your tickets on-line, you may be able to retrieve your travel itineraries within the last couple of years. Some web sites keep longer histories.

Hope this helps.

Cheers,

Goran

Edited by Goran, 16 February 2009 - 09:06 AM.

GoranMale02009-02-16 09:04:00
US Citizenship General DiscussionNATURALIZATION PROCESS.. HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE ?
QUOTE (jasman0717 @ Feb 16 2009, 08:37 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Take a look at the immigration timelines link at the top of the page, the stats may be helpful


...and if you'd like more numbers....

Some statistics for September, October, November, December and January filers as of 8:40AM, Monday, February 16:

Days between application sent and NOA:
........................Min.......Max.......Average...Median
September filers....3.........23................9...........8 (n=19)
October filers........4.........62...............15..........14 (n=20)
November filers.....4.........22...............10..........10 (n=23)
December filers.....4.........26...............12..........12 (n=26)
January filers........5.........16...............11..........11 (n=17)

Days between application sent and Biometrics appointment:
........................Min.......Max.......Average...Median
September filers...24.........51..............32..........31 (n=21)
October filers.......19.........84..............40..........37 (n=17)
November filers....23.........43..............31..........30 (n=19)
December filers....25.........71..............37..........34 (n=21)
January filers.......27.........36..............31..........32 (n=12)

Days between application sent and Interview appointment:
........................Min.......Max.......Average...Median
September filers...75........152............119.......121 (n=17)
October filers.......76........164............119.......115 (n=17)
November filers....92.......138............116........111 (n=17)
December filers....83.......121............101..........97 (n=9)
January filers.......70.........70.............70..........70 (n=1)

Days between application sent and Oath appointment (COMPLETION):
........................Min.......Max.......Average...Median
September filers..120........187............160.......160 (n=8)
October filers......115........154............129.......125 (n=5)
November filers...117.......117............117........117 (n=1)
December filers...XXX.......XXX...........XXX.......XXX (n=0)
January filers......XXX.......XXX...........XXX.......XXX (n=0)
GoranMale02009-02-16 08:44:00
US Citizenship General DiscussionNATURALIZATION PROCESS.. HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE ?
QUOTE (cookiee @ Feb 15 2009, 11:08 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
anyone applied citizenship from Florida lately ?


Hi Cookiee!

I collect the stats for the September-January filers. There's one filer from Tampa that has the following timeline:

Application Sent: 12/2/08
NOA Received: 12/16/08 (14 days)
Biometrics taken: 1/3/09 (32 days)
Interview Scheduled: 4/1/09 (120 days)

Hope that helps you out a little.

Cheers,

Goran
GoranMale02009-02-16 08:21:00
US Citizenship General DiscussionReady to File N400, need some help guys!
QUOTE (silvershadow212 @ Feb 25 2009, 01:44 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hello all- I'm sending out my application next week. I'm just wondering should I fill out the form w/ a pen or type it in? Also, I'm filing based on 5 years of permanent residency, should I include my divorce decree? I was divorced in 2005. So, I will include, complete application, copy of my GC, $675 check to HMS, 2 passport style photos & maybe copy of my divorced decree. Am I missing anything here? Can I just send it normal package through USPS w/ return receipt?
Please let me know.

Thanks guys!


I think that they also insist that you use "Department of Homeland Security" as the "payable to" name on the $675 check that you write.

I used USPS Priority mail from Richmond, VA to Texas, and it took 5 days! ClockWatch2.gif In my case, paying extra for the "priority mail" did not get my application there any quicker than regular 1st class mail with return receipt. idea9dv.gif

Good luck,

Goran
GoranMale02009-02-25 18:03:00
US Citizenship General DiscussionWhat are you doing with your "old" citizenship?
QUOTE (moonhunt @ Feb 25 2009, 08:17 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Not every countries allows dual citizenship.
Some country may have specifically the law prohibiting dual citizenship.
South Korea has the law spelled that you will loose the citizenship whenever you have citizenship from other country no matter the government recognize it or not.

You can sneak around it, but that's illegal.

US has implicit dual citizenship policy from US dept. of State viewpoint.
Nobody mention it, we didn't see your other country's passport.
Just show US passport when you deal with US, kind of thing.

Practially you can sneak around the loophole of the system, but it is your responsibility to follow the law.
If you can take consequences of your behaviors, it's fine.

But I don't think we recommend to sneak around the law for illegal from this forum, right ? cool.gif


So it is not from US law. It is mandated from South Korea law. whistling.gif

From US law viewpoint, as I mentioned from above, don't mention it, and we don't even see your other country's passport, kind of thing. whistling.gif

I just want to point out that not every country allows dual citizenship even though US allow it with "no comment" policy.


That makes sense... I suppose... Thanks for your feedback. As of 2001, Sweden allows dual-citizenship... (used to be a country not recognizing dual citizenship.)
GoranMale02009-02-25 20:23:00
US Citizenship General DiscussionWhat are you doing with your "old" citizenship?
QUOTE (moonhunt @ Feb 25 2009, 08:05 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Same question from two different persons... whistling.gif

It's the law.
I can still try to use my original country's passport, but it is unlawful.
There are technical issue that old country may not know until I report it.
But if it is the law, it's better to follow it.

If somebody is curious, yes, South Korea doesn't allow dual citizenship because of tax issue and military service conflict issue.


You don't happen to know the Code section for reference? I've looked around, but I haven't really been able to find an actual U.S. law that says that you have to give up your citizenship of the "old" country. huh.gif
GoranMale02009-02-25 20:12:00
US Citizenship General DiscussionWhat are you doing with your "old" citizenship?
QUOTE (thea @ Feb 25 2009, 07:21 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
It's not necessarily that easy to get the passport for your "old" country renewed.
Germany, for example, requires you to provide proof of legal presence in the US when you apply for a passport via one of the consulates. So to get a new German passport I had to show them my valid greencard. Once you have citizenship you only have a US passport to show. From that it would be pretty easy to spot that you took US citizenship. Not sure what the passport application form asks for when I would apply for a passport in Germany.


How about if you renew your passport in the "old" country? I.e., you'd go back to Germany and use your German birth certificate to apply for a new passport?
GoranMale02009-02-25 19:29:00
US Citizenship General DiscussionWhat are you doing with your "old" citizenship?
QUOTE (moonhunt @ Feb 25 2009, 06:44 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Some country doesn't have a choice. mad.gif
According to the law, my original citizenship will be lost automatically when I become other country's citizen.


How does your "original" country know that you have a new citizenship with another country?
GoranMale02009-02-25 18:46:00
US Citizenship General DiscussionWhat are you doing with your "old" citizenship?
QUOTE (Thomas and Milena @ Feb 25 2009, 06:01 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Well, you could do that (walk in and say, see ya later Sweden), but then it would be rather difficult if you ever wanted to take a trip to Europe that lasts more than 90 days. In fact, an American is legally required to leave Europe for 90 days before he/she can go back for another 90 days. Thanks to the Schengen agreement, American students can no longer backpack around Europe for five months without some serious and sneaky border jumping around Switzerland or the Balkans. (They used to get a new 90-day tourist visa every time they entered a new country. Now they get 90 days for all of Schengen, from Portugal to Estonia.)

You are also better off using your Swedish passport if you ever want to go to Brazil or Bolivia without paying the $100 visa fee (implemented as a reciprocal policy to Washington's very strict visa requirement for Brazilians and Bolivians wishing to visit the United States.)

Given the walls governments construct to block the free movement of peoples, I can't imagine why anyone would willingly relinquish a citizenship unless required to do so by law. As you can see, I have rather strong opinions on this. I'm sure there are reasons to willingly relinquish citizenship, but I do not know them.


Thanks for your reply! I really appreciate it. I was just wondering. I would definitely like to keep my Swedish citizenship, but am confused what the Oath of Allegiance for Naturalization really means. It states:

"I hereby declare, on oath, that I absolutely and entirely renounce and abjure all allegiance and fidelity to any foreign prince, potentate, state, or sovereignty of whom or which I have heretofore been a subject or citizen..."

It does not explicitly state that you renounce your old citizenship, however, it states allegiance and fidelity.....as most things that deals with Governments - CLEAR AS MUDD! blink.gif

In other words, can you say that you have "absolutely and entirely renounce(d) and abjure(d) all allegiance and fidelity to any foreign..." if you still keep you citizenship with that country?

GoranMale02009-02-25 18:14:00
US Citizenship General DiscussionWhat are you doing with your "old" citizenship?
Just a poll to see what everyone's plans are after you take the Oath in regards to your current citizenship and allegiance. I'm also interested if anyone know how you would go about telling your current country, "thanks, but no thanks...", if you know what I mean? For example, do I just walk in to the Swedish embassy in D.C. and say: "It's been a great 36 years, but I'm sorry, I wanna be an American now... Here's my passport... So long!" (Hypothetically speaking, that is).

Any ideas?
GoranMale02009-02-25 17:39:00