Posted by Tom 3 years ago In:

immigration

Tom Asked:

I was convicted with grand larceny in New York 10 ...

I was convicted with grand larceny in New York 10 years ago. I received 5 years probation and community services, later the sentence was cut to 2 and half years of probation. I had no priors, and been in good moral standing since. now I live in Florida. I want to know will this conviction bar me from becoming a citizen?

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3 Answers

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antolin Answered:

Tom: The answer is that it will not bar you from becoming a citizen. However, when you apply for citizenship, if you already have a green card, what will happen is that the Service will move to have you removed for the conviction. The removal can be defeated by application for a variety of relief including cancellation of removal. Furthermore, if the offfense was minor and you did not serve any jail time, or if the amount of time served was less than six months, it could qualify for the petty offense exception. If I were you I would try to overcome that conviction before you apply for citizenship. You may call us at 213 842 8968.

Posted 3 years ago
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Elisa Answered:

There are a list of crimes and if a person has been charged or convicted for one of them, he/she is barred from applying for citizenship. You can find out this list in the instructions on the citizenship application.

If your crime is such that you are not barred from applying for citizenship, then you have to ensure that you meet all the other eligibility requirements. You have to be a green card holder for 5 years and during the last 5 years your moral conduct should have been excellent. When you complete your citizenship application, you need to make sure that you are transparent about your crime and the consequent sentencing. Do not hide anything from the USCIS.

If your green card is about to expire or if you have an expired green card, USCIS requires that you renew it before you apply for citizenship.

Posted 3 years ago

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h20mysticshadow Answered:

Every states has their own policy. I'm not in a position to advice you because I'm not an attorney but I think some felony conviction is not an absolute bar to becoming a US citizen. As far as I know the Convictions that permanently ineligible for naturalization are murder convictions, Conviction, on or after November 29, 1990, of an aggravated felony.

You must be of good character at the time of your application and you are able to convince the USCIS that you've completely change & you have past that stage in your life. It happened how long ago, & you must have an accurate representation your conduct since. Better consult an Immigration lawyer.