U.S. Citizen: A Comprehensive Guide to Legal Citizenship

Definition & Meaning

A U.S. citizen is an individual who has acquired citizenship in the United States either at birth or through the naturalization process. This status grants them certain rights and responsibilities under U.S. law. Citizenship can be lost under specific circumstances, such as voluntary renunciation or certain criminal convictions.

Table of content

Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

1. A child born in the United States to foreign parents automatically becomes a U.S. citizen at birth.

2. An individual who immigrates to the U.S. and completes the naturalization process becomes a U.S. citizen after taking the Oath of Allegiance (hypothetical example).

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition
U.S. Citizen A person who has acquired citizenship in the U.S. by birth or naturalization.
Permanent Resident An individual who has been granted the right to live and work in the U.S. indefinitely but is not a citizen.
Naturalized Citizen A person who was born a foreign national but has gone through the legal process to become a U.S. citizen.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you believe you are a U.S. citizen or are seeking citizenship, it is important to understand your rights and responsibilities. You can explore US Legal Forms for templates related to citizenship applications and other legal documents. If you encounter complex issues, consider consulting with a legal professional for tailored advice.

Quick facts

  • U.S. citizenship grants the right to vote in elections.
  • Citizens can apply for a U.S. passport.
  • Citizenship can be lost through renunciation or certain legal actions.
  • Citizens are subject to U.S. laws and taxes.

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

A U.S. citizen has full rights and responsibilities, while a permanent resident has the right to live and work in the U.S. but cannot vote.