How can people become United States citizens? — Answer & Explanation

Official Question & Answer

Question

How can people become United States citizens?

✦ OFFICIAL ANSWER ✦

Be born in the United States, under the conditions set by the 14th Amendment; naturalize; derive citizenship (under conditions set by Congress)

Why This Is the Answer

There are three ways to become a U.S. citizen: be born in the United States (birthright citizenship under the 14th Amendment), naturalize (the process you're preparing for), or derive citizenship through a parent who is a citizen.

Naturalization is the process by which a lawful permanent resident applies for and earns citizenship through Form N-400, the interview, and the Oath of Allegiance.

Derived citizenship can happen automatically for children when their parents naturalize, or through birth abroad to U.S. citizen parents, under conditions set by Congress.

💡 Interview Tip

Say: 'Be born in the United States' or 'naturalize.'

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