The Path to Citizenship Chapter 1-2 Pgs

Key Terms O Naturalization – a legal process in which foreigners become citizens. O Alien – a noncitizen O Immigrant – a person who moves permanently to a new country O Deport – to expel from the country

Illegal Aliens O Illegal aliens come to the U.S. O Come as temporary visitors but never leave. O Illegally cross the U.S. borders with Mexico and Canada. O Foreigners who have stayed in the U.S. after their legal permits have expired.

Problems O It is illegal to hire an illegal alien, so illegal aliens who find work receive little pay and no benefits. O They live in fear that the government will find them and deport them.

Becoming a Citizen O You can become a citizen of the United States two ways: O By birth O Naturalization process

By Birth O People born in the US or in any US territory or military base are automatically citizens. O People who are born elsewhere to American citizens or to one parent who is American. O These children can have dual citizenship. O Children who are born on American soil to parents who are not citizens. O Does not apply to foreign diplomats

Naturalization Process O Step 1 – An immigrant signs a Declaration of Intention O Step 2 – The declaration is filed with the USCIS (US Citizenship and Immigration Services) O Step 3 – After living in the US a specified number of years (5 or 3 if you are married to a US citizen), the immigrant files an application for citizenship O Step 4 – The USCIS interviews the applicant O Step 5 – The applicant passes a citizenship exam O Step 6 – The applicant pledges an oath of allegiance.

Priority to Enter O Millions of people apply for entry into the U.S. a year. O Priority goes to the following: O People who are relatives of U.S. citizens O Those who have needed job skills or money to invest in the economy

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