Derivative Citizenship

Derivative Citizenship for Children Under 18

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Derivative Citizenship allows certain children of U.S. citizens to automatically become U.S. citizens themselves. Children born abroad to U.S. citizen parents can become citizens themselves by obtaining a Consular Report of Birth Abroad from a consular officer.  The Child Citizenship Act of 2000 also allows certain children to automatically derive citizenship after admission to the U.S as a lawful permanent resident.  If at least one parent is a U.S. citizen, children under 18 can acquire citizenship through their parent’s naturalization after obtaining a Green Card before age 16 and meeting residency requirements.  Requirements can differ if the child was born in or out of wedlock and change depending on which biological parent is a U.S. citizen.

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Derivative Citizenship for Adults

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If at least one of your parents was a U.S. citizen when you were born you may be eligible to claim derivative citizenship even if you are now an adult.  This involves providing documentation such as your birth certificate, your parents’ citizenship records, and potentially other supporting evidence like marriage certificates or proof of physical presence in the United States. A Form N-600 must be submitted and the process includes an interview where you’ll need to demonstrate your claim to citizenship.  If you’re living outside the United States, it might be best to file a passport application with the required evidence you submit to USCIS.