Americanism

April 2021

 There has been much ado about the “crisis at the Border” wherein there are literally thousands of people  from other Countries attempting to enter the United States. I thought we might take a look at how one goes  about the process of “naturalization” to become an American Citizen.

 A US Citizenship Application Form N-400 is used for obtaining US citizenship. Lawful Permanent Residents  (Green Card holders as they are known) over the age of 18 who meet the eligibility requirements can apply  for US citizenship. Lawful Permanent residents whose Green Card has been valid for the prior 5 years can file  for US citizenship. You can follow thru the US immigration process to attain citizenship. If you are married to  a US citizen, you may apply for US citizenship after 3 years with a valid Green Card. There are exceptions. If  an applicant has served in the United States Armed Forces during war, that individual may obtain citizenship  without first becoming a permanent resident if he or she was in the United States upon enlistment into the  US military. A form N-400 (US Citizenship Application) is the required form; it must be filed along with  photos and supporting documents. According to Immigration and Naturalization, becoming a US citizen has  many advantages. Specifically they are: 

…Right to vote: The ability to elect the leaders of this nation is an exclusive right of US citizens. Becoming  one of them gives you the right to vote in federal elections.

 …Reunite with family already in the United States: To promote family unity, US citizens and legal residents  are allowed to petition for certain qualified relatives to come and live permanently in the United States

 …Obtain citizenship for children born abroad: If you are a US citizen and your child was born outside of the  Country, he or she could become a US citizen automatically. 

…Ability to travel freely across US borders: As a US citizen the amount of time spent outside of the country is  not restricted. Permanent Residents, on the other hand, may lose their status if they leave the country for a  certain period of time.

 …Collect benefits: Take advantage of US benefits like Social Security and Medicare. …Become a Federal employee: To be eligible for most federal jobs you need to be a US citizen. The Department finishes its “welcome” message by  stating: “You decided to commit to the journey of  immigration to the USA. Complete it.”

 That’s all for now. 

Fraternally, 

Steve Gates