Most of my posts deal with the facts of illegal immigration and the pros and cons. Today, however I'd like to discuss the steps that Hispanics go through to become a US citizen after they have immigrated. Keep in mind, this is for legal immigrants only.
To be eligible for naturalization a person must be 18 years old, live in the USA for 5 years, be a lawful permanent resident, and be of good moral character. If a person is eligible, they must begin a series of tasks. The first being completing an application for citizenship called N-400. The second is to get two passport-like photographs taken, collect all necessary documents, and then send in the application along with fees. The fees include 320 dollar application fee and a 70 dollar fee for fingerprinting. After sending in an application it may be 5 months to more than 2 years before the immigrant is requested for an interview. However, considering the number of applicants that apply each year, the application waiting list can be more than 10 years. After waiting, the applicant goes through a series of interviews and tests (English and civics test). The test itself is quite difficult and many Americans can't even pass it. Here's some sample questions to test your patriotic skills (scroll toward the bottom of the page). If the immigrant passes the test, they are asked what they have been doing since the interview and then take the oath of allegiance before finally becoming a US citizen. The whole process is very long and tedious.
Given that the naturalization process is so long, many immigrants find it easier to just cross the border illegally and work right away instead of waiting 5 months to 10 years just work legally. In a way, the naturalization process encourages illegal immigration. What is needed is a total reform of the naturalization process. Less expensive fees for application, more employees to help sift through the pounds of applications, and a simpler test. Hopefully, if the process is simplified, many immigrants will see the advantages of becoming a US citizen, instead of the disadvantages.
Until next time...