Different Ways to Become a U.S. Citizen

Introduction

Becoming a citizen of the United States brings many benefits—like the right to vote and the many benefits of U.S. citizenship, access to certain government jobs, the ability to sponsor family members, and the security of a U.S. passport.

Yet the path to citizenship can be confusing—especially if English is not your first language or you’re older and new to the process.

This article explains, in plain language, the different ways someone can become a U.S. citizen, the eligibility requirements, the steps you need to take, and tips to help older adults or non-native speakers.

Understanding U.S. Citizenship

Before exploring the paths, it helps to understand what citizenship means—and how it differs from a “green card.”

A green card (lawful permanent residence) lets you live and work permanently in the U.S., but you remain a foreign national.

Citizenship gives you full rights: you can vote in federal elections, hold a U.S. passport, sponsor more family members, and you cannot be deported under normal circumstances.

The Four Main Paths to Citizenship

There are four broad categories—or “paths”—by which someone becomes a U.S. citizen. Many resources list three or five variations, but broadly speaking you can think of them as:

1. Citizenship by birth (in the U.S.)
2. Citizenship by birth abroad to U.S. citizen parent(s)
3. Citizenship by “derivation” (child of a parent who naturalizes)
4. Citizenship by naturalization (most common for adult immigrants)

We’ll go through each of these in turn, in plain language, with eligibility criteria, special cases (important for older adults or those whose first language isn’t English), and what you should do next.

1. Citizenship by Birth (in the U.S.)

If you were born on U.S. soil (including the U.S. territories), you are automatically a U.S. citizen under the 14th Amendment.

Key eligibility

• Born in the United States or U.S. territory (for example, Puerto Rico, Guam, U.S. Virgin Islands)
• Very few exceptions apply (for example, children of foreign diplomats)

If you were born abroad or your parents’ status was unique, check Paths 2 or 3 below for other possibilities.

2. Citizenship by Birth Abroad to U.S. Citizen Parent(s) (Acquisition)

You may have automatically acquired U.S. citizenship at birth if you were born outside the U.S. but one or both of your parents were U.S. citizens at that time.

Key eligibility

• At least one parent was a U.S. citizen when you were born
• The citizen parent lived in the U.S. for a required period before your birth
• Additional requirements depend on your date of birth and the law in effect at that time

Tips for older adults and non-native English speakers

The rules for “acquisition” can be complicated, especially for births decades ago. If you think you may qualify, it can help to get a Certificate of Citizenship (Form N-600) as proof.

If you didn’t meet all requirements at birth, you might still qualify for citizenship through naturalization (Path 4).

What to do: Check your birth date, your parents’ citizenship status, and their time in the U.S. If eligible, file Form N-600 or seek legal guidance.

3. Citizenship by Derivation (Child of a Parent Who Naturalizes)

You may automatically become a U.S. citizen after birth but before turning 18 if at least one parent becomes a U.S. citizen and you meet certain conditions.

Key eligibility

• You are under 18 when your parent naturalizes
• You are a lawful permanent resident (green-card holder)
• You live in the U.S. under the legal and physical custody of the U.S. citizen parent

Special notes

• For adults (over 18), this path generally does not apply—you would use naturalization (Path 4).
• The Child Citizenship Act of 2000 changed eligibility rules, so older cases should be reviewed carefully.

If you met all these conditions as a child, you may already be a U.S. citizen and can apply for proof using Form N-600.

4. Citizenship by Naturalization

This is the process by which most adult immigrants become U.S. citizens—by applying after living as a lawful permanent resident.

Key eligibility

• Be at least 18 years old
• Be a green-card holder for 5 years (or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen)
• Live continuously and be physically present in the U.S.
• Have “good moral character”
• Be able to read, write, and speak basic English (some older-adult exemptions may apply)
• Pass a U.S. history and government (civics) test

Special cases

• Marriage to a U.S. citizen: Apply after 3 years if all requirements are met.
• Military service: Certain members can apply through expedited procedures.

Steps to Apply for Naturalization

According to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS):

1. Check if you are already a U.S. citizen.
2. Confirm eligibility for naturalization.
3. Prepare and file Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization).
4. Attend your biometrics appointment (fingerprints, photo).
5. Complete the citizenship interview and tests.
6. Receive a decision from USCIS.
7. Attend the naturalization ceremony and take the Oath of Allegiance.
8. Receive your Certificate of Naturalization.
9. Update your records (Social Security, passport, voter registration).

Tips for older adults and non-native English speakers

• Check if you qualify for English or civics test exemptions.
• Prepare early: collect green card, travel records, ID documents, and tax returns.
• Seek help from bilingual community organizations or workshops.

Choosing the Right Path

1. Identify which path applies to you:
   • Born in the U.S.? Path 1.
   • Born abroad to U.S. citizen parent(s)? Path 2.
   • Under 18 when your parent became a citizen? Path 3.
   • Adult green-card holder seeking full citizenship? Path 4.
2. Check eligibility carefully: Each path has its own requirements—age, residence time, and parent status. Some older adults may face issues like long absences abroad breaking “continuous residence.”
3. Gather your documents: Birth certificate, green card, parent’s citizenship proof, and residence history. Keep copies and translations if needed. See our citizenship application supporting document checklist.
4. Understand timelines and fees: Naturalization typically requires 3 or 5 years of residence. USCIS processing can take several months.
5. Prepare for the interview and test: Practice civics questions and basic English. Many free resources are available online.

FAQs on Ways to Become a U.S. Citizen

Summary

Becoming a U.S. citizen is a meaningful milestone that offers lifelong benefits. Whether you qualify by birth, through parents, derivation, or naturalization, understanding which path fits you—and following each step carefully—is key.

For older adults and non-native English speakers, taking extra time to prepare and using community resources can make the process smoother and more successful.

With the right information, preparation, and support, you can confidently apply for U.S. citizenship and enjoy all the rights and responsibilities that come with it.