4 Responsibilities and 12 Benefits of U.S. Citizenship You Should Be Aware Of

Applying for United States citizenship has a lot of benefits; these advantages are one of the main reasons why there is continuous growth in the number of applicants every year.

The benefits of U.S. citizenship can range from sponsoring family citizenship to gaining massive livelihood opportunities. With these types of assets, many non-citizens prefer having dual citizenship for the convenience of being a permanent resident in the U.S.

However, these perks are best used with acknowledgment and accountability. Here is some crucial information you might want to know about the benefits and responsibilities of having U.S. citizenship.

12 Benefits of U.S. Citizenship

1.     You cannot be quickly deported back to your country of origin.

One of the best benefits you can have as a permanent resident in the United States is the power to stay in the country legally. It prevents you from worrying about possible deportation, specifically if you are given occupational opportunities within the U.S.

It comes highly recommended to non-citizens seeking asylum secondary to a personal threat from their home country. Being a naturalized citizen can help them be safe in the United States and be free from harm or potential persecution.

2.     You can apply for U.S. Passport.

Permanent residents or green card holders can apply for a U.S. Passport. Being able to possess a U.S. Passport can grant you government assistance whenever you are traveling outside the country.

3.     You can avail of federal benefits.

Foreigners obtaining citizenship in the country can have benefits from the federal government. These benefits may include health and life insurance, savings plan, social security, assistance programs, and other administrative public offers.

4.     You are eligible for government jobs.

As there are many job opportunities in the United States, most of them are available only to U.S. citizens. Being a naturalized citizen or a green card holder makes you eligible to apply in various local and state jobs—making it easier to find an occupation that best fits your potential.

5.     You can vote during the election.

Attaining U.S. citizenship gives you the right to vote. Permanent residents are given a chance to elect public officials or run for public office.

6.     You can invite family members to the country.

It is easier to bring your family members to the United States when you are a naturalized citizen. Citizens are often prioritized in the application of obtaining a Green Card for family (parents, spouse, siblings, or children).

7.     You can run for public office.

In addition to having the right to vote, a permanent resident also has the right to run for public office. Most federal, state, and local offices offer job opportunities exclusive to U.S. citizens.  However, running for public office may vary depending on the state requirements.

8.     You can obtain citizenship for your children.

Children under the age of 18 who are born outside the United States may have the opportunity to be U.S. citizens if their parents are naturalized. Once the parents naturalize, their children are automatically considered citizens as well. 

9.     You can avail of financial aid.

There is a lot of available financial support exclusive only to U.S. citizens. These financial grants can heavily aid college students with their school fees as a handful of college scholarships are given to permanent residents.

10.  You can save money from the recurring cost of permanent residency status.

Being a naturalized citizen saves you twice the overall price you may spend on renewing your green card or re-entering the United States.

Currently, a $540 Green Card renewal fee is paid for your Form I-90 to be processed. A green card holder renews their card every ten (10) years, and the renewal fee may vary depending on USCIS.

Being a naturalized citizen can save you the hassle of renewal as it is a one-time payment.

11.  You can avail of tax and estate planning benefits.

Non-citizens and citizens have different tax obligations. There is a lot of assistance offered with tax and estate planning for permanent residents.

12.  You can increase your earning potential.

More job opportunities and positions are significantly proposed only to U.S. citizens. These types of employment have requirements exclusive to permanent residents that are more considerable in acquiring savings.

It is partly why many non-residents prefer to be naturalized in the United States—to help them with financial needs.

4 Responsibilities of a U.S. Citizen

1.     You may be summoned for Jury Duty.

U.S. citizens above 18 years old are qualified to participate on a jury. Being a juror is one of the most relevant obligations you can provide to protect Constitutional rights.

2.     You need to file Income Tax Returns.

As a permanent resident, it is one of your responsibilities to be able to contribute to enhancing the community you live in. Filing for Form 1040 (the United States Individual Tax Return) is mandatory for a naturalized citizen.

This federal form is used by the Internal Revenue Service to track one’s income, deduct appropriate tax, and make sure your tax bill annually is calculated properly (for tax refunds or additions).

3.     You need to register with Selective Service.

As a citizen, you are to serve your country when needed. The Selective Service System in the United States requires all male permanent residents, ages 18 to 25 years old, to register for the country’s security. Male citizens must accomplish registration within 30 days (1 month) upon turning 18. While non-citizens may register 30 days upon arrival in the United States.

4.     You may be required to renounce citizenship in other countries.

Most U.S. citizens have dual citizenship from their home countries. In most cases, you are to be required to give up your citizenship from other countries to focus on loyalty and honor to the United States.

Although this circumstance does not apply to everyone, this is an important reminder to consider upon application for naturalization in the United States.

Becoming a Reliant U.S. Citizen

Given the numerous benefits of becoming a naturalized citizen in the United States, it is understandable why many people are eager to apply to become one. However, being a citizen comes with various obligations and responsibilities. One of the essential responsibilities is respecting and willingly serving the country.

To further assist you in the naturalization process in the United States, you may contact Ruby Powers Law and our team of lawyers to guide you throughout the whole process.