Different Paths to U.S. Citizenship- Middle School

Becoming a citizen of the United States means gaining important rights—like the right to vote in elections, run for public office, and travel with a U.S. passport. It also means promising to support and defend the laws and Constitution of the country.

There are four main legal pathways to U.S. citizenship.

1. Citizenship by Birth (Jus Soli)

This is the most common way people become U.S. citizens, and it happens automatically.

• The Rule: Under the 14th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, almost anyone born physically within the territory of the United States is automatically a citizen at birth.

  • Recently, there was a threat to "birthright citizenship," but the Supreme Court ruled to maintain this rule.

• Details: It does not matter what country the parents are from or what their legal status is. If the birth takes place in any of the 50 states, Washington D.C., or U.S. territories like Puerto Rico and Guam, the baby is a U.S. citizen from day one.

2. Citizenship through Parents (Acquisition)

Sometimes, a child is born outside of the United States, but they are still considered a citizen from birth because of their parents.

• The Rule: If a child is born in a foreign country, but at least one of their biological parents is a U.S. citizen who has lived in the U.S. for a certain period, the citizenship can be "acquired" at birth.

• Details: Parents must register the birth with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate to get a document called a Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA), which acts as their official proof of citizenship.

3. The Naturalization Process

This is the path taken by adults who were born in another country, immigrated to the United States, and decided they want to officially join the nation. This path takes time, effort, and dedication.

To qualify for naturalization, an applicant must meet several strict requirements:

• They must be at least 18 years old.

• They must have been a Lawful Permanent Resident (holding a Green Card) for at least 5 years (or 3 years if they are married to a U.S. citizen).

• They must show they follow the law and are positive members of their community.

• Applicants must pass an interview with an immigration officer where they are tested on:

  • English: Reading, writing, and speaking basic English.

  • Civics: Answering questions about U.S. history and how the government works (such as naming the three branches of government or explaining the Bill of Rights).

• The Oath of Allegiance: The final step is a formal ceremony where applicants swear an oath to be loyal to the United States and renounce allegiance to their former country.

4. Citizenship for Kids of Naturalized Parents (Derivation)

What happens to children when their parents go through the naturalization process? They have their own pathway!

• The Rule: If an immigrant parent successfully completes the naturalization process (Path 3) and becomes a U.S. citizen, their permanent resident children under the age of 18 who are living with them automatically "derive" citizenship.

• Details: Because they are minors, these children do not have to take the English and Civics tests or go through the adult interview process. Their parents can simply apply for a Certificate of Citizenship or a U.S. passport for them.