Published: February 8, 2023
The United States government welcomes 400,000 to a million new citizens per year. In 2021, the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) naturalized around 809,100 immigrants. Experts expect the statistics to rise after the country fully recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic and the relaxation of border control measures.
There are two general ways to become a US citizen: naturalization and acquisition. Naturalization is a process by which immigrants request US citizenship by accomplishing the requirements set by the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). In comparison, acquisition occurs when a minor obtains US citizenship by operation of law through their blood relationship or place of birth.
In both instances, you will need strong proof of US citizenship to qualify for all rights and privileges exclusive to full-fledged American citizens.
It is important to note that naturalization and acquisition differ entirely from immigration and acquiring a green card. While both instances allow an individual to enter and stay within the US territory, mere immigration does not grant US citizenship.
Also, although naturalization, acquisition, and immigration have similarities, they have unique requirements.
Both these processes can involve technical details requiring immense legal knowledge and experience. If you want to determine how to get proof of US citizenship or apply for a green card, always get in touch with experts. Seek the guidance of an immigration law firm to ensure your safety and increase your chances of approval.
Benefits of Becoming US Citizens
Obtaining US citizenship requires a lot of patience and hard work. This process could take months to years to finish depending on your circumstances. You will also need to set a particular budget to prepare documents that serve as your US proof of citizenship.
Becoming a US citizen can be challenging, but it is rewarding. The rights and privileges that one may obtain can change any immigrant’s life for the better.
To keep you motivated, here are the most notable benefits of unlocking US citizenship:
- High-paying job opportunities
- Significantly high standard of living
- Access to an array of social services, not limited to healthcare, education, and retirement benefits
- Constitutional right to freedom of speech and religion, enabling one’s ability to freely express themselves and worship as they please
- Right against discrimination based on race, gender, religion, and other factors
- Right to travel freely both within the country and internationally
- Right to vote in federal elections and to participate in the political process
- Access to world-class schools and academic programs
- Eligibility to apply for government posts and other related opportunities
- Ability to sponsor a relative or loved one for permanent residency
If you are eligible to become a US citizen, take advantage of this opportunity. You can experience more benefits not enumerated on this list.
US Citizenship Eligibility
US citizenship is a privilege limited to specific individuals. Before preparing documents and paying the fees, you should prioritize checking your eligibility to become a US citizen.
You are eligible to become a US citizen if you possess the following qualifications:
- At least 18 years old or older when applying for naturalization
- Lawful permanent residency
- Continuous permanent residence in the United States for at least 5 years (3 years if you are married to a US citizen)
- Physical presence in the United States for 30 months (18 if you are married to a US citizen)
- At least 3 months’ worth of stay in the state or USCIS district where you intend to reside
Nota bene: Those who render honorable service to the US armed force for at least one year, at any time, may also qualify for US citizenship.
If you have questions about your eligibility to become a US citizen, consult with our US citizenship attorney.
Proving US Citizenship
There are several things to consider when attempting to prove US citizenship. You may need to comply with different requirements depending on your circumstances. One of the most pivotal factors is your place of birth. More specifically, how you prove US citizenship drastically varies whether you are born inside or outside the United States.
Born Within United States
It is easier to obtain proof of US citizenship if you are born in the United States. After all, the government will issue a birth certificate for you. By application of the jus soli principle, anyone born within the US territory will inherit US citizenship. This rule applies regardless of a person’s nationality or both of their parents’ nationalities.
Born Outside of the United States
If you are not born in the United States, things get trickier. There are a few conditions that you must consider.
If you are born outside of the United States but have at least one US citizen parent at the time of your birth, you may still qualify for US citizenship. This mode of acquiring citizenship is called derivative citizenship.
If you are born outside of the United States to a naturalized US citizen, you may also qualify for US citizenship. However, one of your parents should be naturalized after February 27, 2001, when the Child Citizenship Act was enacted.
Please keep in touch with an immigration lawyer if you have more questions about becoming a US citizen despite being born outside of the US territory.
Documents Qualifying as Proof of US Citizenship
It is essential to learn what documents prove US citizenship because these files strengthen your chances of approval. After all, you may not convince immigration authorities as to the validity of your citizenship through self-serving claims.
At the earliest opportunity, collect the original copy of the following documents:
- US government-issued birth certificate
- Certificate of Naturalization
- Certificate of Citizenship
- Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA)
- Valid unexpired US passport
Also, do not forget to apply these reminders when applying for US citizenship.
Reliable Immigration Attorney in Los Angeles Area
Establishing your proof of US Citizenship is an indispensable step. Applicants may not proceed to the rest of the procedures if they cannot comply with this step. However, proving that you are eligible for US citizenship can be overwhelming and mentally challenging.
Fortunately, you do not have to be alone while attempting to prove your US citizenship. For best results, collaborate with some of the best immigration attorneys in the industry. ALG Lawyers will be with you all the way.
Our immigration law firm will work tirelessly to provide you with top-tier services and support. You can count on us to make any immigration process less burdensome and more organized.
(Please note that this article does not create an Attorney-Client relationship between our law firm and the reader and is provided for informational purposes only. Information in this article does not apply to all readers. Readers should not rely on this information as legal advice and should seek specific counsel from a qualified attorney based on their individual circumstances. Thank you.)