What Is Derivative Citizenship?

Derivative citizenship is a legal concept in which a person automatically acquires the citizenship of another country due to a qualifying relationship with a citizen of that country, typically a parent or adoptive parent. It essentially means you “derive” your citizenship from your parent’s citizenship. Derivative citizenship in the United States refers to the acquisition of U.S. citizenship by individuals who are not born as U.S. citizens but can derive or acquire citizenship through certain qualifying relationships, typically involving parents. The specific provisions for derivative citizenship are outlined in the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA).

Derivative Citizenship Process

If citizenship is not acquired automatically, one can seek it through the application for derivative citizenship using Form N-600, known as the Application for Certificate of Citizenship. This procedure mandates providing proof of the parent’s citizenship and establishing the qualifying parent-child relationship.

Required Documentation for the N-600 Application:

• Form N-600: A fully completed and signed application form.
• Filing fee
• Two passport-style photographs: Recent photos that adhere to USCIS specifications.
• Proof of relationship: A birth certificate demonstrating the parent-child relationship.
• Proof of parent’s U.S. citizenship: The parent’s naturalization certificate or certificate of citizenship.
• Proof of your LPR (Lawful Permanent Resident) status: Submission of your green card.
• Evidence of continuous residence: Documentation confirming your residence in the U.S. with your parent for a minimum of 5 years.
• Proof of good moral character: Submission of documents attesting to your clean criminal history and adherence to U.S. laws.
• English language proficiency: Evidence of basic skills in English reading, writing, and speaking.
• Civic knowledge: Demonstration of understanding U.S. history and government.

Benefits of Derivative Citizenship

U.S. citizenship grants numerous benefits, including the right to:

• Live and work in the United States permanently.
• Vote in elections.
• Travel freely with a U.S. passport.
• Access federal benefits and programs.
• Petition for other family members to immigrate to the U.S.

Download Our Free Guide: 10 Benefits Of Becoming A U.S. Citizen

Do You Want to Become a U.S. Citizen? Talk To A Citizenship Lawyer

The immigration attorneys at Godoy Law Office work with you to evaluate your immigration status and guide you in your journey to becoming a U.S. citizen. If you need help with an immigration issue, please contact our office at 630-345-4164.

We help clients in all 50 states.