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Blog · 2024-04-18

Four ways to obtain U.S. citizenship in 2025

For many people, U.S. citizenship is a dream. But it is far from a simple process, and the route can differ significantly from one case to the next. Here are the main ways to obtain a United States passport.

Through naturalization

A foreign national must live in the United States for five years to become eligible for citizenship. The clock starts from the moment the green card is issued.

Through marriage

The spouse of a U.S. citizen may apply for citizenship after three years of married life together in the country. To relocate, you first need a CR-1 or IR-1 visa.

By birth

A child born on U.S. soil automatically acquires the right to citizenship, regardless of the parents' nationality.

Through military service

Foreign nationals who serve honourably in the U.S. armed forces for more than a year and hold a green card may apply for citizenship.

The advantages of U.S. citizenship

  • Visa-free access to 188 countries, including the Schengen Area, Canada, Japan and the United Kingdom.
  • The ability to live and work in one of the world's most powerful nations.
  • The option of holding dual citizenship.
  • Access to high-quality healthcare.
  • Access to high-quality education.
  • The ability to pass citizenship on to your descendants.

One of the most rewarding citizenships by investment - Paraguay

Strategically located and open to the world, Paraguay is a land of opportunity. Its citizenship-by-investment programme offers foreign nationals and their families a rare chance to obtain a passport in 6-12 months and enjoy all of its benefits: visa-free travel to 146 countries, including the Schengen Area, the United Kingdom and Singapore; eligibility for the U.S. E-2 visa; tax optimisation (a 10% rate); and life in a country with a high standard of living and a favourable climate.

FAQ

How long after a green card can you apply for citizenship?
The standard rule is five years of permanent residence, counted from the date the green card was issued. Spouses of U.S. citizens can apply after three years of living together in the country. Physical presence matters too, since long trips abroad can reset the clock.
Does marrying an American give you citizenship?
No. The foreign spouse first gets a CR-1 or IR-1 immigrant visa and a green card, and only after three years of marriage and residence can apply to naturalize. The marriage must be genuine, and officers examine shared finances, housing and relationship history.
Is a baby born in the US automatically a citizen?
A child born on U.S. soil acquires citizenship regardless of the parents' passports. It gives the parents nothing directly: the child can only sponsor them as an adult. The state birth certificate is what the passport application is based on.
Does the US allow dual citizenship?
The U.S. does not ask you to renounce your previous citizenship, so you can keep both passports. Restrictions usually come from the other country if its law rejects multiple citizenship. Remember the tax side: U.S. citizens report worldwide income wherever they live.
Can you get citizenship through the US military?
Yes, service members get an expedited naturalization route with relaxed residence requirements. The article describes the path for green card holders who have served for more than a year. A discharge under other than honourable conditions removes the benefit.

Don’t want to figure this out alone?

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