Naturalization is a significant milestone for immigrants in the United States. It marks the transition from being a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) to becoming a U.S. citizen. This process involves several steps and leads to many changes, including what happens to one’s green card. This article explores the journey from green card to naturalization and the changes that follow.
Understanding the Green Card
A green card, officially known as a Permanent Resident Card, grants an individual the right to live and work permanently in the United States. Green card holders enjoy many benefits, including the ability to sponsor relatives for immigration, work in any job, and travel in and out of the country with fewer restrictions compared to other visas.
However, a green card is not a guarantee of permanent residence if the holder does not adhere to the rules, such as residing primarily in the U.S. and avoiding certain criminal activities.
The Naturalization Process
Naturalization is the legal process through which a green card holder becomes a U.S. citizen. To be eligible, one must meet several requirements, including:
Residency: Continuous residence in the U.S. as a green card holder for at least five years (three years if married to a U.S. citizen).
Physical Presence: At least 30 months of physical presence in the U.S. within the five years before applying.
Good Moral Character: Demonstrating good moral character during the residency period.
English Proficiency: Ability to read, write, and speak basic English.
Civics Knowledge: Knowledge of U.S. history and government.
Age: Being at least 18 years old.
Once these criteria are met, the applicant submits Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, and undergoes biometrics, an interview, and a civics test. If approved, the final step is taking the Oath of Allegiance.
The Ceremony: Oath of Allegiance
The Oath of Allegiance is a crucial part of the naturalization process. During this ceremony, the applicant pledges allegiance to the United States, renouncing prior allegiances to other countries. This oath signifies the final step in becoming a U.S. citizen.
What Happens to the Green Card After Naturalization?
After naturalization, the individual’s status changes from lawful permanent resident to U.S. citizen. This change brings several implications for the green card:
Surrendering the Green Card: During the naturalization ceremony, new citizens are required to surrender their green cards. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) collects these cards as they are no longer needed. The green card is replaced by a Certificate of Naturalization.
Legal Status Update: Once naturalized, the individual’s legal status is updated in government records. They are no longer classified as a lawful permanent resident but as a U.S. citizen. This update is crucial for all future legal and governmental interactions.
Travel Documentation: The green card, which was previously used as a primary travel document, is no longer valid. Naturalized citizens must use a U.S. passport for international travel. Applying for a passport is a straightforward process involving the submission of the Certificate of Naturalization and other identification documents.
Voting Rights: Green card holders cannot vote in federal elections. Upon naturalization, individuals gain the right to vote in local, state, and federal elections. They must register to vote in their jurisdiction to exercise this right.
Sponsoring Relatives: As U.S. citizens, naturalized individuals can sponsor a broader range of relatives for immigration compared to green card holders. They can petition for parents, siblings, and married children, who are categorized under different preference levels in the immigration system.
Benefits of Naturalization
Naturalization offers numerous benefits beyond the changes to the green card. These benefits include:
Citizenship Rights: U.S. citizens enjoy full constitutional rights, including the right to vote, run for public office (except the presidency and vice presidency), and serve on juries.
Permanent Residency Security: Citizenship eliminates the risk of deportation and ensures permanent residence in the U.S. Unlike green card holders, citizens cannot lose their status due to prolonged absences from the country or certain legal issues.
Government Benefits: Citizens have access to a broader range of federal benefits and programs, some of which are not available to green card holders.
Job Opportunities: Certain government jobs and positions requiring security clearances are only available to U.S. citizens. Naturalization opens up these employment opportunities.
Global Mobility: A U.S. passport offers visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to numerous countries, facilitating easier international travel compared to a green card.
SEE ALSO: UNDERSTANDING NATURALIZATION IN THE UNITED STATES: A COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE
Responsibilities of U.S. Citizenship
With the privileges of U.S. citizenship come responsibilities. Naturalized citizens must:
Abide by Laws: Adhere to all U.S. laws, both federal and state.
Participate in Jury Duty: Serve on juries when called upon.
Pay Taxes: Fulfill tax obligations to local, state, and federal governments.
Support Democracy: Engage in civic duties, such as voting and staying informed about public issues.
FAQs About Naturalization and Green Cards
1. Can I keep my green card after naturalization?
No, you must surrender your green card during the naturalization ceremony. It is replaced by a Certificate of Naturalization.
2. Do I need to notify the USCIS of my naturalization?
No, the USCIS automatically updates your status in their records once you take the Oath of Allegiance and become a U.S. citizen.
3. Can I travel internationally immediately after naturalization?
Yes, but you will need a U.S. passport. Apply for a passport as soon as possible after your naturalization ceremony.
4. What happens if I lose my Certificate of Naturalization?
If you lose your Certificate of Naturalization, you can apply for a replacement by filing Form N-565, Application for Replacement Naturalization/Citizenship Document.
5. Can my naturalization be revoked?
Naturalization can be revoked in rare cases, such as if it was obtained through fraud or if the individual commits acts that are grounds for revocation, such as joining certain prohibited organizations.
Conclusion
Naturalization is a transformative process that provides green card holders with the full rights and responsibilities of U.S. citizenship. Surrendering the green card and obtaining a Certificate of Naturalization marks the beginning of this new chapter. With citizenship, individuals gain greater security, opportunities, and the ability to fully participate in the civic life of the United States. Understanding these changes helps prepare new citizens for their future as active and engaged members of American society.