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American citizenship can be attained by either birth or naturalization. Becoming an American citizen means that you are granted certain privileges, but it also means that you must uphold certain obligations in order to retain citizenship.
Privileges
Voting, access to federal services and government protection are among the benefits granted to American citizens.
Duties
Obligations of American citizens include paying taxes, obeying laws and, when called upon, serving in a jury.
Citizenship Through Birth
Although citizenship laws have changed over the years, individuals are granted United States citizenship if at least one parent was an American citizen at the time of birth. Those born in United States territory are also usually granted automatic citizenship.
Citizenship Through Naturalization
An individual can become an American citizen if she meets residency qualifications and passes a strict naturalization, or citizenship, test.
Dual Citizenship
American citizenship law allows individuals to retain citizenship of their native country. For instance, children born to U.S. citizens in a foreign country are often eligible for dual citizenship.
Source:
Resource:
Do You Have What It Takes To Become A Citizen?
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