Understanding Citizenship: The Benefits and Responsibilities of US Citizenship

What exactly does it mean to be a citizen of the United States? In this blog entry we’ll break it down – and if you have any questions about the process of obtaining citizenship, or immigration-related questions in general, please contact us today!

With rare exception, anyone born in the US is a US citizen.  In addition, depending on a variety of circumstances, an individual born outside the US to a U.S. citizen parent may also be a US citizen.  Otherwise, individual must go through a process called naturalization.

To become a citizen through naturalization, you must be able to speak and write English, although there are exceptions for long-term permanent residents of a certain age. You must pass a test demonstrating basic knowledge of US government, history, and politics. You must be at least 18 years old. You must have permanent resident status and have resided in the US for at least five years (three if you are married to a US citizen).

As a citizen, you can vote and hold public office (except for President of the US and Vice President). You’re also eligible for federal jobs. If you’re living in the US as a non-citizen, there are limitations on how long you can travel outside the US, but there are no restrictions if you’re a citizen. You’re also eligible to get assistance from the US government when abroad. As a permanent resident, you can be deported, but a citizen can’t be deported. You’re eligible for the same assistance programs as any other citizen is, including Social Security and Medicare. You are also able to extend citizenship to your children if they’re under the age of eighteen and in your legal and physical custody. You’re also able to help other relatives obtain their visas, particularly your spouse and parents.

As a citizen, you’re expected not to have an allegiance to other countries. This will include swearing allegiance to the US. If required, you may be expected to serve in the US military. As a citizen, you’re expected to support and defend the constitution. When you apply for citizenship you’ll need to show that you’re “attached to the principles of the Constitution of the United States, and well-disposed to the good order and happiness of the United States.”

Citizenship presents many exciting opportunities. But obtaining US citizenship isn’t an easy process. If you’d like assistance, please contact us today!