HOW TO BECOME A US CITIZEN?

The most common ways for foreigners to become U.S. citizens are: citizenship by birth, citizenship by marriage, naturalization, citizenship through military service , and residency through investment. Below are the main methods of becoming a U.S. citizen and details of these processes.

1. US Citizenship by Birth (Jus Soli and Jus Sanguinis)

The United States applies both jus soli (citizenship based on place of birth) and jus sanguinis (citizenship based on blood ties) principles

• Everyone born in the USA: Anyone born on US soil automatically becomes a US citizen. This is regardless of their parents' nationality. The USA is one of the countries that fully implements the jus soli principle.
• Children born to U.S. citizen parents: Even if born outside the U.S., children whose at least one parent is a U.S. citizen may automatically become U.S. citizens. The parent must prove their citizenship and complete the necessary applications.

2. US Citizenship Through Marriage

Foreign nationals who marry a U.S. citizen may be eligible for U.S. citizenship. However, marriage alone does not automatically grant citizenship. Those wishing to become U.S. citizens through marriage must first a Green Card to gain permanent residency. The basic requirements for citizenship are as follows:

• Obtaining a Green Card: To apply for citizenship through marriage, a person must have been married to a US citizen for at least three years and resided in the US as a green card holder during that time.
• Cohabitation: It is important to prove that the marriage is not fake and that the couple lives together.
• Good Conduct and Criminal Record: Applicants must have a clean criminal record and not pose any moral issues.

3. Naturalization

Foreign nationals who have resided in the United States for a specified period with a legal residence permit (Green Card) can apply for natural citizenship. The natural citizenship process includes the following steps:

• Residency Requirement : Green card holders must have resided continuously in the United States for at least five years . If married to a US citizen, this period may be reduced to three years .
• Good Conduct: The individual must demonstrate that they have not been involved in any crime during their time residing in the United States and that they possess good moral character.
• Language and Knowledge Test: Applicants for citizenship must have a basic level of English proficiency. They must also pass a knowledge test covering U.S. history, government structure, and citizenship rights.
• Oath Ceremony: Individuals whose naturalization applications have been approved must attend an oath ceremony to officially become U.S. citizens.

4. Citizenship through Military Service

Foreign nationals serving in the U.S. military can apply for citizenship through military service. Serving in the U.S. military can expedite the citizenship process. To apply for citizenship through military service:

• Military Service Duration: Foreign nationals must serve a specified period of active duty in the U.S. military. This active duty period is typically one year or more.
• Citizenship Application: For some military personnel in the United States, citizenship applications are processed quickly. Furthermore, these applications are generally exempt from application fees.

5. Green Card and Citizenship by Investment (EB-5 Program)

The EB-5 investor visa program also offers an option for high-income foreigners who wish to become U.S. citizens . To apply for U.S. citizenship through this program, it is first necessary to hold a green card.

• Investment Amount : To obtain an EB-5 visa, a minimum investment of US$900,000 in the United States is required. The investment must aim to create jobs in specific economic zones
• Job Creation : The investor must create permanent employment for at least 10 Americans
• Green Card and Citizenship: After obtaining a green card through investment, one can apply for citizenship after residing in the US for 5 years.

6. Dual nationality

The United States allows dual citizenship. This means that a person is not required to relinquish their current citizenship when they become a US citizen. However, the status of dual citizenship depends on the laws of the other country of citizenship of the applicant.

7. Citizenship Application Process

Individuals wishing to apply for U.S. citizenship must complete Form N-400 for naturalized citizenship applications . The application process includes the following steps:

• Form N-400 Application: The application form must be completed and the required documents attached. These documents include passport, residence permit (Green Card), birth certificate, and criminal record certificate.
• Biometric Processing: The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) may request fingerprints and biometric information from applicants.
• Interview: The citizenship applicant will be interviewed about their English language skills and knowledge of US history.
• Citizenship Oath Ceremony: After the application is approved, the individual officially becomes a U.S. citizen by attending an oath ceremony.

In summary, U.S. citizenship can be obtained through various methods including birthright, marriage, natural citizenship, military service, or investment. However, in all cases, the applicant must meet certain criteria and submit the necessary documents. The citizenship process is rigorously evaluated, taking into account factors such as language proficiency, good conduct, and criminal record.