The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has released an official guide detailing eight essential actions that immigrants can take immediately after becoming naturalized American citizens. The guide, available on the USCIS citizenship resource center, directly addresses new citizens, acknowledging both the privileges and duties that accompany naturalization.
Key Steps Outlined by USCIS for New Citizens
The first recommendation is to apply for a U.S. passport through the Department of State. This document, along with the Certificate of Naturalization, serves as official proof of citizenship. New citizens are also advised to contact the Social Security Administration to update their records, reflecting their new citizenship status. An accurate Social Security record is necessary for employment, benefits, and accessing government services.
One of the most significant benefits highlighted is the ability to sponsor family members for lawful permanent residence, commonly known as a Green Card. To do this, new citizens must demonstrate sufficient income or assets to support their relatives in the United States.
Family and Civic Responsibilities
Parents who naturalize may find that their children automatically acquired citizenship. Specifically, children who were lawful permanent residents and under the age of 18 on the day their parent naturalized may have derived U.S. citizenship, and a Certificate of Citizenship can be obtained for them. Registering to vote is listed as both a right and a responsibility. New citizens can register at vote.gov, either online, by post, or in person, and may also register when applying for or renewing a driving license.
For those who misplace their Certificate of Naturalization, USCIS notes that a replacement can be requested by filing Form N-565 online. Those with a state-issued driving license or identification card who have changed their name or address are encouraged to update those details with their state's Department of Motor Vehicles.
Entrepreneurship and Additional Resources
The final item encourages new citizens to explore entrepreneurship. The U.S. Small Business Administration offers free or low-cost counseling, access to capital, and contracting support to help new Americans launch and grow small businesses across the country.
In related news, Australia's Department of Home Affairs has outlined the residence requirement foreigners must meet before applying for citizenship. Applicants must have lived in Australia on a valid visa for a number of years before the date they apply, with specific rules on time spent outside Australia.
