English Language Program (ELP)

Define citizenship

Citizenship is defined as the status given to a legal member of the country.  It involves rights, duties, and privileges.

Applying for U.S. Citizenship

When applying for naturalized citizenship, you must send the following to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) office nearest to your home:

• Form N-400
• Two glossy passport photos of yourself
• A copy of the front and back of your permanent resident ID card
• A money order for the filing fee and cost of fingerprinting

You may submit your application 90 days before the day you will meet the residency requirement.

Why Become a Citizen?

U.S. Citizenship

1. U.S. citizens have the right to obtain a United States passport and receive assistance from U.S. Embassies and Consulates when traveling abroad.
2. U.S. citizens have the ability to sponsor family members so they can obtain green cards and legally immigrate to the United States.
3. Children of U.S. citizens are automatically U.S. citizens by birth (in most cases, even if they are born outside the United States).
4. U.S. citizens have security from removal or deportation from the United States.
5. U.S. citizens have the right to live or take long trips outside of the US, without worrying about compromising one’s visa.
6. U.S. citizens have the right to vote and select their government.
7. U.S. citizens have the ability to apply for certain federal jobs since citizenship is sometimes a requirement of employment positions.
8. U.S. citizens have an unquestioned right to return to the United States since citizens cannot be denied entry.
9. U.S. citizens have the right to apply for certain federal and state benefits.
10. U.S. citizens do not need to renew a Green Card upon expiration.

Citizenship Benefits for ESL Students:

• Avoid deportation
• Better paid jobs
• Better way of living
• Family can sponsor family members legally into the country
• Permanent residence

New Naturalization Test available at www.uscis.gov.