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A
citizen of the United States is
a native-born, foreign-born, or
naturalized person who owes
allegiance to the United States
and who is entitled to its
protection. In addition to the
naturalization process, the
United States recognizes the
U.S. citizenship of individuals
according to two fundamental
principles: jus soli, or right
of birthplace, and jus sanguinis,
or right of blood.
Naturalization is the process by
which U.S. citizenship is
conferred upon a foreign citizen
or national after he or she
fulfills the requirements
established by Congress in the
Immigration and Nationality Act
(INA). The general requirements
for administrative
naturalization include:
- a period of continuous
residence and physical
presence in the United
States;
- residence in a
particular
USCIS District prior to
filing;
- an ability to read,
write, and speak English;
- a knowledge and
understanding of U.S.
history and government;
- good moral character;
- attachment to the
principles of the U.S.
Constitution; and,
- favorable disposition
toward the United States.
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