Benefits of Being a U.S. Citizen
While the U.S. Constitution and its laws give many rights to both citizens and non-citizens living here, some rights are only for citizens. When citizenship is granted to you, it is your right to:
- Petition for spouses, children, parents and even siblings to become U.S. permanent residents. (Citizens generally get priority when petitioning for their family members, who can receive visas more quickly than when Lawful Permanent Residents petition for them.);
- Never be subject to deportation from the U.S. (However, citizenship may be revoked under certain circumstances related to major tax fraud or acts of treason.);
- Vote in national and local elections;
- Become eligible for governmental benefits such as Social Security and social assistance;
- Receive U.S. Government protection and assistance when traveling or residing abroad;
- Apply for many kinds of financial aid, such as college loans or scholarship programs; and
- Hold certain jobs or offices within the federal, state or local levels.
