#1: No Risk of Deportation
All non-U.S. citizens, even lawful permanent residents, are subject to our nation's immigration laws. This means that if a non-U.S. citizen makes a mistake by committing a certain crime or other immigration violation - no matter how long that person has lived in the United States - he or she could be placed in removal (deportation) proceedings before an immigration judge.
Naturalized U.S. citizens generally do not have to worry about being placed in removal proceedings. Losing citizenship through denaturalization followed by possible deportation only happens in rare and exceptional circumstances.
#2: Travel is Easier
After a person naturalizes, he or she can apply for a U.S. passport, and travel to foreign countries often becomes easier. Also, U.S. citizens may receive assistance from the United States government when overseas, if necessary. Finally, there are no time constraints on a U.S. citizen's ability to travel. Green card holders, by contrast, must ensure they do not abandon their status due to lengthy overseas travel.
#3: Sponsoring Family Members for a Green Card
While lawful permanent residents can sponsor family members for a green card, they can only petition spouses and unmarried children under 21. U.S. Citizens, on the other hand, can also petition parents, married children, and siblings.
#4: Voting
You must be a United States citizen to vote. With congressional immigration reform at a standstill, executive (presidential) action will be the primary means for change in the near nurture. Therefore, the 2016 presidential race will be significant, and naturalized U.S. citizens can play a very important role in shaping the country's policy.
#5: More Public Benefits Available
Unlike green card holders, U.S. citizens who qualify can receive all government benefits including Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and other types of assistance. Also, certain educational scholarships and financial aid are only available to U.S. Citizens.
If you would like to find out if you qualify to naturalize or if you want to learn more about the naturalization process, please call the experienced immigration attorneys at Ross & Pines to schedule a free consultation.