Why become a U.S. Citizen

Permanent residents have most of the rights of U.S. citizens.
But there are many important reasons to consider becoming a U.S. citizen. Here are some good reasons:
• Showing your patriotism. Becoming a citizen is a way to demonstrate your commitment to your new country.
• Voting. Only citizens can vote in federal elections. Most states also restrict the right to vote, in most elections, to U.S. citizens.
• Serving on a jury. Only U.S. citizens can serve on a federal jury. Most states also restrict jury service to U.S. citizens. Serving on a jury is an important responsibility for U.S. citizens.
• Traveling with a U.S. passport. A U.S. passport enables you to get assistance from the U.S. government when overseas, if necessary.
• Bringing family members to the U.S. U.S. citizens generally get priority when petitioning to bring family members permanently to this country.
• Obtaining citizenship for children born abroad. In most cases, a child born abroad to a U.S. citizen is automatically a U.S. citizen.
• Becoming eligible for federal jobs. Certain jobs with government agencies require U.S. citizenship.
• Becoming an elected official. Only citizens can run for federal office (U.S. Senate or House of Representatives) and for most state and local offices.
• Keeping your residency. A U.S. citizen’s right to
remain in the United States cannot be taken away.
• Becoming eligible for federal grants and scholarships.
Many financial aid grants, including college scholarships and funds given by the government for specific purposes, are available only to U.S. citizens
• Obtaining government benefits. Some government benefits are available only to U.S. citizens.