United States citizenship is one of the most valuable things that anyone can possess. To become a naturalized United States citizen is one of the most important choices you can ever make. The benefits of US citizenship are numerous and are further explained below. It is important to note that possessing a Green Card does not mean you are a United States citizen. A Green Card holder is a citizen of his or her home country, but is a United States resident, not citizen. It is also possible to be a citizen of more than one country; this is called dual citizenship.

Below are the top 10 reasons to apply for U.S. citizenship. Please visit our frequently asked questions page for detailed information and to order the U.S. Citizenship Information and Application Guide for everything you need to know about the application process.

1. U.S. citizens have the right to obtain a United States passport and receive assistance from U.S. Embassies and Consulates when traveling abroad.
2. U.S. citizens have the ability to sponsor family members so they can obtain green cards and legally immigrate to the United States.
3. Children of U.S. citizens are automatically U.S. citizens by birth (in most cases, even if they are born outside the United States).
4. U.S. citizens have security from removal or deportation from the United States.
5. U.S. citizens have the right to live or take long trips outside of the US, without worrying about compromising one's visa.
6. U.S. citizens have the right to vote and select their government.
7. U.S. citizens have the ability to apply for certain federal jobs, since citizenship is sometimes a requirement of employment positions.
8. U.S. citizens have an unquestioned right to return to the United States, since citizens cannot be denied entry.
9. U.S. citizens have the right to apply for certain federal and state benefits.
10. U.S. citizens do not need to renew a Green Card upon expiration.

Download the U.S. Citizenship Application Guide for naturalization instructions.