WHY BECOME A U.S. CITIZEN
Many may have seen or attended the special 4th of July ceremony for newly naturalized U.S. citizens at the Seattle Center. Even in these troubled times, tens of thousands of people naturalize as U.S citizens each year.
Whether it is happy times or troubled times, here are ten reasons why you should become a U.S. citizen:
1. VOTE
Gain a political voice. Participate in government and public processes. Elect officials who create and debate laws. Serve on juries and be elected to public office. Politicians usually help people who can vote for them.
2. BRING FAMILIES TO THE U.S.
Sponsor spouses, unmarried and married children, parents, and siblings to immigrate to the U.S, and often those relatives can immigrate more quickly. Immigrants (green card holders) can sponsor only spouses and unmarried children.
3. CITIZENSHIP TO CHILDREN
Children under 21 years old are eligible to become U.S. citizens if their parent(s) become citizens.
4. NO RESIDENCY REQUIREMENTS
Travel and live abroad for unlimited length of time and not lose their citizenship. Immigrants, however, are required to maintain their U.S. residency. If immigrants do not maintain their residency and leave the U.S. for six months or more without special permission from the Immigration Service, they may lose their status.
5. NO DEPORTATION
No fear of being deported. Immigrants who commit certain crimes or immigration violations may be denied entry to the U.S., have their status revoked, or be deported.
6. PERMANANCY
U.S. citizenship is permanent. No requirement to renew lawful status. Immigrants have to renew their status every ten years, and if they have committed certain crimes or immigration violations after becoming an immigrant, their status may be revoked.
7. NO PROOF OF STATUS REQUIRED
No requirement to carry proof of citizenship. Immigrants are required to carry their green card at all times.
8. MORE JOB OPPORTUNITIES
Eligible to work for the federal government and certain state jobs.
9. EASIER ADMISSION TO THE U.S.
Enter the U.S. easier, faster, and less questioning. Criminal history will not affect ability to enter the U.S.