Differences Between Naturalized and Derived Citizenship

The path to citizenship is different for all immigrants, and also there are two types of  path of citizenship – Naturalized or Derived – immigrants today.  And according to pewresearch.org, immigrants account for 14.3% of the U.S. population. In 2024, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) naturalized 818,500 new citizens. Congrats to all of them becoming US Citizens.

Foreigners can become naturalized or derived citizens of the US through various legal processes. The requirements and processes involved in both statuses differ.

If you are interested in becoming a naturalized or derived citizen, you need to know and understand how the application process works and how your new citizenship status can affect your life.

there she is… the statue of liberty

Definition of Naturalized Citizenship

Naturalized citizens are foreign-born people who voluntarily apply for and complete U.S. naturalization after meeting residency and other requirements. Naturalization requires proficiency in the national language and a strong moral character.

Candidates are expected to have taken citizenship tests to verify their knowledge of the country and its government.

After meeting all naturalization requirements, the applicant becomes a candidate. After approval, the applicant takes the Oath of Allegiance and becomes a citizen. As a naturalized citizen, you are granted voting rights and expected to follow your new country’s laws.

To become a naturalized citizen, you may need to complete the green card renewal process first if you are still holding one.

Definition of Derived Citizenship

Derived citizens automatically become U.S. citizens when their parents naturalize under certain legal conditions. Derived citizenship is usually given to children of citizens.

Derived citizenship does not require a formal application or residence requirements like naturalization. Understanding derived citizenship helps families comply with immigration law and see to it that children receive their rights and status.

The Process of Obtaining Naturalized Citizenship

all 50 states, it’s all one country. USA

The process of naturalization usually begins with residency. In some cases, this requires years of residency in a country. Applying may require proof of residence and passing the citizenship test, which gauges your knowledge of the country’s history and government.

An officer will interview you to review your application if you pass.

Circumstances for Acquiring Derived Citizenship

skating with my USA, USA, USA … flag

Citizenship by descent usually depends on your parents’ citizenship. If your parents were U.S. citizens, you may automatically become one.

Currently, certain conditions, such as whether the child is born inside or outside the United States, will apply to a child born to a U.S. citizen father and a non-U.S. citizen mother.

Acting quickly is always important for anyone who is interested in becoming a citizen of the United States. Children must be under the age of 18 when their parents are naturalized to obtain derived citizenship.

Legal Implications and Rights of Each Citizenship Type

Like other citizens, naturalized citizens can run for office, get federal jobs, and be protected from U.S. law. Meanwhile, the rights of derived citizens rely on their parents’ status. If their parent loses citizenship, it may affect their citizenship status.

Naturalized citizens may find it easier to sponsor family members for immigration compared to derived citizens. Knowing these differences will help you understand your rights and responsibilities.

Conclusion

Although differences, becoming a  citizen of the USA continues to be something immigrants take pride in. Plus it is always great when all the new citizens come together to  celebrate the 4th of July  too.