Naturalization

Naturalization is the process in which a Lawful Permanent Resident becomes a citizen. To qualify for naturalization, one must meet some basic requirements set by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).  To apply for the Naturalization the applicant must:

• Be 18 years or older
• Be a Lawful Permanent Resident
• Meet continuous residence and physical presence requirements
• Meet the good moral character requirement
• Must meet other requirements based on your individual situation

Citizenship

Citizenship is the position of being a citizen of a specific country.  The easiest way to gain citizenship in the United States of America is by birth.  If a child is born in the U.S. or certain incorporated territories, the child is legally considered a U.S. Citizen by birth, even if the parents of the child are citizens of a different country. Citizenship can also be acquired through a parent who is a U.S. citizen or if both parents are U.S. citizen, even if the child was born abroad.

Citizenship may also be obtained through naturalization.  This process is not given at birth, but may be applied for if one qualifies [see previous section for more information].

Dual citizenship allows for an individual to have citizenship in the United States of America, and in their home country.  This is only allowed by specific countries in the world.  Most countries require an individual to resign their citizenship of a country to become a citizen of the United States.