Citizenship and Naturalization

Legal Permanent residents have most of the rights of U.S. citizens. But there are many important reasons to consider becoming a U.S. citizen. These include:

• Showing your patriotism. Becoming a citizen is a way to demonstrate your commitment to your new country. • Voting. Only citizens can vote in federal elections.
• Serving on a jury. Only U.S. citizens can serve on a jury. Serving on a jury is an important responsibility for U.S. citizens.
• Traveling with a U.S. passport. A U.S. passport enables you to get assistance from the U.S. government when overseas, if necessary.
• Bringing family members to the U.S. U.S. citizens generally get priority when petitioning to bring family members permanently to this country.
• Obtaining citizenship for children born abroad. In most cases, a child born abroad to a U.S. citizen is automatically a U.S. citizen.
• Becoming eligible for federal jobs. Certain jobs with government agencies require U.S. citizenship.
• Becoming an elected official. Many elected offices in this country require U.S. citizenship.
• Meeting tax requirements. Tax requirements may be different for U.S. citizens and permanent residents.
• Keeping your residency. A U.S. citizen’s right to remain in the United States cannot be taken away.
• Becoming eligible for federal grants and scholarships. Many financial aid grants, including college scholarships and funds given by the government for specific purposes, are available only to U.S. citizens.
• Obtaining government benefits. Some government benefits are available only to U.S. citizens.

For more information please view the following document: Citizenship-Naturalization.