Naturalization applications down 62 percent

“The number of immigrants applying to become U.S. citizens plunged 62 percent last year as the cost of naturalization rose and the economy soured, according to an analysis released Friday by the National Council of La Raza, a Latino advocacy organization,” according to The Washington Post.

To my mind, the factors are:

1. The bad economy;
2. The very large fee increases that went into effect in 2007;
3. The anti-immigrant attitude by certain “rage filled” Americans.

Our office is very proud of the work we do in naturalization cases. We charge a reasonable fee of $1,500 (which includes the filing fees). We do a similar background check to the one conducted on the applicant by immigration authorities. We do a thorough pre-interview with each client. One of our lawyers will always go with you to your interview. And, unlike most immigration firms, if for any reason federal court review is required of your application, then we can file a federal lawsuit challenging the denial of your application or the government’s delay in adjudicating your application. Costs and attorney fees for federal litigation are not included in our flat fee for the naturalization application and interview process.