Naturalization Ceremony held at Northern Michigan University Center

MARQUETTE — This morning a naturalization ceremony was held at the Northern Michigan University Center. This naturalization ceremony allows individuals to have the opportunity to become U.S. citizens.

Naturalization is the process by which U.S. citizenship is granted to a foreign citizen or national after he or she fulfills the requirements established by Congress in the Immigration and Nationality Act. Many individuals who gain citizenship are happy to have the opportunity to make the most out of the American dream.

“Everybody has a good opportunity to become a U.S. citizen,” explained Nadiya Pavlenko, New U.S. Citizen. “You can do whatever you want and wish for as long as you have energy and not being lazy. Just do it!”

For many it takes quite some time to become a U.S. citizen and to go through the process. The pathway to U.S. Citizenship is possible if the individual is a Green Card holder of at least 5 years. On top of that the individual must meet requirements as well in order to apply for naturalization.

“Well all of these people have gone through a lot,” said Judge R. Allen Edgar, U.S. District Court for the Western District of Michigan. “They have started in their native countries and have gone through an extensive process to become citizens. They have all taken the test that a lot of us might have difficulty in passing. They all have a good attitude becoming a part of this country.”

To learn more about the path to gain U.S. Citizenship you can click here.