The Constitution and laws of the United States give many rights to both citizens and non-citizens living in the USA. However, there are several rights and privileges afforded only to U.S. citizens. The benefits to becoming a U.S. citizen include:
- Voting. Only U.S. citizens can vote in Federal elections.
- Bringing family members to the United States. Citizens generally get priority when petitioning to bring family members permanently to this country (to obtain a green card).
- Obtaining citizenship for children born abroad. In most cases, a child born abroad to a U.S. citizen is automatically a U.S. citizen.
- Traveling with a U.S. passport. A U.S. passport allows you to get assistance from the U.S. government when overseas.
- Becoming eligible for Federal jobs. Most jobs with government agencies require U.S. citizenship.
- Becoming an Elected Official. Some naturalized citizens want to take a more active role governing America. Many elected offices in this country require U.S. citizenship.
- Financial Aid. In many cases only U.S. citizens are eligible for the financial aid grants made by the government, including college scholarships.
- Expenses. It costs less to become a citizen compared to remaining a green card holder. In the long term, USCIS filing fees for naturalization are far less expensive than maintaining permanent resident status.
Certainty. Permanent residency can be revoked. On the other hand, citizenship is good for life, it cannot be revoked (unless there is substantial evidence of a crime against the state).