— Immigrants who receive citizenship have the same rights, privileges and responsibilities of U.S. citizens born in the country. These include voting, serving on a jury, traveling with a U.S. passport, becoming an elected official or running for federal office, and being eligible for financial aid such as federal grants or scholarships for education purposes, some federal jobs with government agencies and some government benefits.
— The process immigrants undertake when they choose to pursue citizenship. They must be at least 18 years of age; possess a green card, also known as permanent residency, for at least five years; prove residency for at least three months in the state where the person will receive citizenship; be a person of good moral character; demonstrate an attachment to the principles and ideals of the U.S. Constitution; and take an oath of allegiance to the U.S. Those who want to become citizens also must pass a test that proves they have a basic understanding of U.S. history and government, and must be able to prove proficiency with the English language in reading, writing and speaking.