Derivative Citizenship: A Path Toward U.S. Citizenship
Navigating the complex world of U.S. immigration laws can be overwhelming, especially as regulations constantly evolve. However, finding a path toward U.S. citizenship can be invaluable. Derivative citizenship is one such potential path.
At Simkin & Associates, Inc., our immigration lawyers are committed to guiding you through the challenges and potential roadblocks that are inherent in the immigration process. Our citizenship attorneys stay abreast of the latest immigration rules and regulations to help make your application process as smooth as possible. If you believe that you or your child may qualify for derivative citizenship, we are here to provide legal guidance and support.
What Are The Requirements For Derivative Citizenship?
Derivative citizenship allows certain children to become U.S. citizens automatically, through the naturalization of their parents. To qualify, specific criteria must be met. The main requirements include:
- One or both parents already have U.S. citizenship, either because of birth or through the naturalization process.
- The child must be under the age of 18 years.
- The child resides in the U.S. in the custody (both legal and physical) of the parent who has U.S. citizenship.
- The child must have lawful permanent residency; in other words, they have a valid green card.
Our immigration and U.S. citizenship attorneys at Simkin & Associates, Inc., can help you understand these requirements and assess if you or your child is eligible to apply for derivative citizenship. We will work with you to gather the necessary documentation and guide you through the application process. Our goal is to help make the naturalization process a smooth and efficient experience.
Who Can Qualify For Derivative Citizenship?
Derivative citizenship typically applies to children who have at least one parent who is a U.S. citizen. This can include:
- Children born abroad to U.S. citizen parents.
- Children who immigrate to the U.S. with their parents.
- Children adopted by U.S. citizen parents, provided certain conditions are met.
Our immigration lawyers can evaluate the facts of your specific situation and help you understand if you or your child are eligible for derivative citizenship. No matter what type of legal guidance you are seeking, our lawyers work closely with our clients to develop legal strategies that meet their needs and goals. If derivative citizenship is not an option, they will help you evaluate other immigration strategies.
Why Should You Seek Citizenship For Your Child?
Seeking derivative citizenship for your child will secure them many different advantages and benefits, including:
- Automatic U.S. citizenship without the need for a separate naturalization process
- Access to a U.S. passport for your child, which allows for easier international travel
- Eligibility for federal benefits and protections that are only available to U.S. citizens
- Your child will have the right to vote in U.S. elections when they reach the legal voting age of 18
- Protection from deportation
In other words, securing derivative citizenship for your child means that your child obtains U.S. citizenship by operation of law. They will automatically be considered a U.S. citizen once they complete the application process. Thereafter, your child will have all of the rights and benefits of other American children.
Consult An Immigration Lawyer
If you have questions about derivative citizenship, need assistance with the application process or would like to pursue other avenues of immigration, we invite you to contact our immigration lawyers. You can schedule an initial consultation by calling our office at 888-288-5723 or by sending us a message through our website.