People who enter the United States thanks to family, education or work opportunities can become permanent residents. They can adjust their status to obtain green cards. People with green cards can stay in the United States for the rest of their lives if they follow the right procedures. They can also naturalize, which is how they become citizens of the United States. Naturalized citizenship creates numerous new legal protections and rights for those living legally in the United States.
What benefits potentially make the expense and effort of naturalization worthwhile?
1. The right to vote
Permanent residents generally do not have the option of voting in important elections. Immigrants who naturalize can shape policy by voting on ballot initiatives and choosing candidates whose promises and voting record align with their personal priorities.
2. Increased immigration options
Citizens have the most legal right to sponsor others for entry into the United States. Those hoping to bring parents or siblings to the United States may need to become citizens first.
3. The end of travel limits
Green card holders can travel abroad, but there are restrictions on how long they can stay in another country. People who become citizens are no longer subject to restrictions on the duration of their international travel. For those who want to spend time with family in another country or who travel frequently for work, citizenship offers more flexibility for travel.
Retaining an immigration attorney can help people understand their immigration options and manage the challenges of naturalization. Immigrants often need help understanding their rights and managing the paperwork necessary when seeking visas, adjusting their status or pursuing naturalization, and that’s okay.