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Constitution Day: Becoming a U.S. Citizen

This guide will address the origins and history of our government's foundational document, with its amendments. A variety of issues are discussed, from the process of writing and adoption, to current interpretations of the Constitution.

U.S. Citizens : Born vs. Naturalized (choosing)

Citizens by Birth

Ch. 3 - U.S. Citizens at Birth (INA 301 & 309)

General Requirements for Acquisition of Citizenship at Birth

A person born in the United States who is subject to the jurisdiction of the United States is a U.S. citizen at birth, to include a child born to a member of an Indian, Eskimo, Aleutian, or other aboriginal tribe

In general, a person born outside of the United States may acquire citizenship at birth if all of the following requirements are met at the time of the person’s birth:

  • The person is a child of a U.S. citizen parent(s);
  • The U.S. citizen parent meets certain residence or physical presence requirements in the United States or an outlying possession before the person’s birth in accordance with the applicable provision.

Source: U.S. Citizen and Immigration Services

Naturalized Citizens

If you are not a U.S. Citizen by birth - as described in the definition to the left, you can make the choice to become a U.S. citizen. This process is called Naturalization. With the exception of the right of election to the offices of President and Vice-President of the United States, there is no legal difference between a born and naturalized U.S. Citizen.

A Monroe University Research Guide

                THIS RESEARCH OR "LIBGUIDE" WAS PRODUCED BY THE LIBRARIANS OF MONROE UNIVERSITY