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CITIZENSHIP
US citizenship opens the door to many new opportunities in the United States. The Citizenship Section answers many questions about what is required to become a citizen. It explains the Naturalization Process, provides information on preparing for the Civics Test and describes the responsibilities and benefits of becoming a US citizen.
Benefits of Citizenship
As a Citizen of the United States, you can play an active role in the US government. Citizenship allows you to:
- vote in elections
- run for government office
- work for the government
Only citizens are eligible to receive government benefits such as:
- financial aid for education costs
- Social Security
- Medicare and Medicaid
As a citizen you will also be free of the limitations of immigration laws; you can help family members enter the country; you can obtain a US passport; you do not have to renew your green card; and once you are a citizen, you cannot be deported.
Requirements for Citizenship
In order to apply for US Citizenship, you must:
- be a lawful permanent resident in the US for five years
- be 18 years or older
- be able to understand, read, speak and write basic English
- be a person of good moral character
- possess a basic understanding of United States history and government
- and you must be willing to take an Oath of Allegiance to the United States
For an audio program on how to become a US citizen go to: How to Become a US Citizen or visit the office of the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service at www.uscis.com.
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