Understanding American Citizenship: A Journey through Born and Naturalized

Have you ever wondered what it takes to be a true citizen of the United States? Whether you were born here or have taken the path to naturalization, the journey to citizenship is a complex and interesting one. In this article, we explore the different ways one can become an American citizen, focusing on the rights and responsibilities associated with this esteemed status.

Being American by Law

Many individuals consider themselves American if they have the right to vote, run for public office, join law enforcement, and serve in the military. However, the legal definition of an American citizen goes beyond these privileges. According to American law, becoming a citizen involves either being born in the United States (jus soli) or by the naturalization process, where an individual voluntarily seeks and is granted citizenship.

The 14th Amendment: A Constitutional Guarantee

The 14th Amendment to the United States Constitution, passed in 1868, provides a clear path to citizenship for those born or naturalized within the United States. Specifically, the 14th Amendment states:

All persons born or naturalized in the United States and subject to the jurisdiction thereof are citizens of the United States and of the State wherein they reside.

This means that following certain conditions, such as being born within the United States, one can automatically qualify for American citizenship.

A Personal Perspective on Citizenship

Being an American citizen isn't just about legal rights; it's also about identity and belonging. Take the example of Paul, who was born in Pennsylvania and automatically became an American citizen due to the provisions of the 14th Amendment. His daughter, Betty, was born in Paris, but she too qualifies as an American citizen under the same amendment. Yet, the journey doesn't end there.

The Naturalization Path: Extending Citizenship to Future Generations

While the 14th Amendment covers those born in the United States, the path to naturalization allows for the extension of citizenship to future generations. For example, if Paul, a U.S. citizen, moves to France and has a child, Betty, who is born in France, can still become a U.S. citizen through the naturalization path. Parents must meet certain eligibility criteria, such as living in the U.S. for a minimum period and being proficient in English.

An Example of the Naturalization Process

Consider the case of Paul and Betty. Paul, a U.S. citizen, lives in France and has a child named Betty. Although Betty was born in France, she still qualifies as a citizen through Paul's U.S. citizenship. However, the process to officially become a citizen involves a few steps:

**Filings with the IRS**: All children of U.S. citizens are required to report to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) when they come of age, to declare their income and pay taxes.

**Understanding the IRS System**: Since Betty knows little French and has no access to a U.S. bank account, she will need to convert her income and payments into USD and navigate complex tax forms, often not available in her native language.

**Applying for Naturalization**: When Betty turns 18, and if she intends to live permanently in the U.S., she can apply to be naturalized. This process involves passing a civics test, demonstrating language proficiency, and a background check.

Conclusion

Whether you were born in the United States or have taken the naturalization path, the journey to American citizenship is a unique and compelling story. The rights, responsibilities, and experiences shared by these individuals exemplify the diverse and inclusive nature of the American identity. If you have any questions about the naturalization process, the 14th Amendment, or any other aspect of U.S. citizenship, feel free to reach out to our experts.

Keywords

American citizenship 14th Amendment Naturalization process