What is the difference between naturalization and citizenship?

Naturalization and citizenship are two processes related to immigration law that are often confused. Naturalization is a process by which a non-U.S. citizen voluntarily applies for and is granted U.S. citizenship. Citizenship, on the other hand, is an inherent right given to people who are born in the United States or its territories. As a result, there are certain rights and privileges associated with citizenship that naturalized citizens do not have, such as the right to vote in federal elections. In order to become naturalized, an applicant must meet certain requirements established by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). These requirements include passing a U.S. history and government exam, establishing a record of “good moral character,” and demonstrating knowledge of the English language. In addition, applicants must meet certain residency requirements in the United States and commit to abiding by the laws of the United States. If all requirements are met, the applicant is granted the privileges associated with becoming an American citizen, such as the right to live and work freely in the United States. Citizenship, on the other hand, is automatically granted to people who are born in the United States or its territories. These citizens are referred to as “natural-born citizens” and are afforded all the rights and privileges of citizenship from birth. Natural-born citizens are considered citizens for life and are not required to meet any of the requirements of naturalization in order to maintain their citizenship. In conclusion, naturalization and citizenship are two different processes associated with immigration law. Naturalized citizens must apply for and meet the requirements for U.S. citizenship, while natural-born citizens are afforded the rights of citizenship immediately upon birth.

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La naturalización y la ciudadanía son dos conceptos relacionados, pero que representan diferentes niveles de compromiso con un país. La naturalización es el proceso por el cual un individuo que no es ciudadano de un país adopta la nacionalidad de ese país. Con la naturalización, un individuo se convierte en un ciudadano de pleno derecho. La ciudadanía, por otro lado, es el estatus otorgado a las personas que han nacido en un país o a través de la naturalización. La ciudadanía da a los ciudadanos los derechos y los deberes de pertenecer a un país y de contribuir a su desarrollo económico y social. En Massachusetts, la ley de inmigración ofrece la oportunidad de naturalización a inmigrantes legales por medio del proceso de naturalización. Algunos inmigrantes pueden solicitar la ciudadanía a través de la naturalización, mientras que otros pueden ser elegibles para la ciudadanía a través de los padres o de la nacionalidad natal. Existen requisitos específicos para cada una de estas formas de obtener la ciudadanía, por lo que es importante investigar cuidadosamente para determinar si se cumple con los requisitos para ser elegible para la ciudadanía.

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What is the difference between naturalization and citizenship?

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