US citizenship vs green card renewal: which is more profitable
Proponents of US citizenship often point to the patriotic and emotional benefits of naturalization. These are all good reasons, but naturalizing as a US citizen is very practical. Edition Citizenpath talked about three applied benefits of US citizenship.
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Individuals with legal permanent resident status (green card holders) often weigh the value of naturalization. Many are satisfied with the opportunity to live and work in the United States, but there are those who want more. The Constitution and laws of the United States provide many rights to citizens and non-citizens alike.
There are several rights and privileges available only to US citizens.
Economic benefit
Becoming a US citizen is more profitable. In the long run, the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) naturalization fees are much cheaper than maintaining permanent resident status.
The current USCIS fee for replacing or renewing a green card is $540. A permanent resident will pay $540 to renew his green card, and he will have to do it again in 10 years. Don't forget that if the green card is lost, stolen or damaged, it will cost another $540 to replace it. What's more, USCIS fees continue to rise. In the past 10 years alone, USCIS green card renewal fees have increased significantly.
On the subject: The ten most common mistakes when applying for a green card
On the other hand, the one-time USCIS fee for filing a naturalization application is $725. Sure, it's a little more expensive in the short term, but US citizenship is for life. Over the course of many years, it is much cheaper. After all, you'll never have to pay another USCIS fee again. The difference is staggering.
Priority Service
When it comes to traveling abroad and helping other family members immigrate, US citizens get VIP treatment. Those who wish to travel outside the United States or apply for a family member to immigrate to the United States will receive priority over permanent residents.
US citizens have the privilege of helping family members immigrate much faster than permanent residents can. This is due to the fact that the number of immigrant visas for immediate family members (spouse, unmarried children and parents) is not limited. There is no ceiling. On the other hand, family immigrant visas are for relatives of lawful permanent residents. Unfortunately, a limited number of visas are issued for each category. As a result, there can be very long waiting times that span several years. Permanent residents cannot apply for married children, parents, or siblings. Citizens can.
Moreover, a child born abroad to a US citizen parent or parents may acquire US citizenship at birth. This does not apply to green card holders.
Obtaining a US passport provides enormous benefits - it will allow the traveler to easily enter most countries in the world.
Confidence
Few expect to be arrested for a crime. But the risks for a permanent resident are much higher. The US government has the right to cancel a green card for various reasons. Many crimes can result in a permanent resident being deported, or at the very least create serious (and costly) problems just for a green card renewal.
Any time a permanent resident re-enters the United States after traveling abroad, re-entry is at the discretion of a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer. This CBP officer has the power to refuse entry and make life difficult for a permanent resident. An old photo or mismatched information will create another time-consuming and costly headache. CBP officers have the right not even to let permanent residents into the country if they have been outside the US for more than 6 months.
On the other hand, citizenship is useful for life. The government cannot revoke citizenship unless there is substantial evidence of a crime against the state. You have more freedom and peace of mind.
Other benefits of citizenship
Of course, there are several other good reasons to naturalize as a US citizen.
Vote
Only US citizens can vote in federal elections. Many states also restrict the right to vote in most elections to US citizens. This powerful right gives US citizens the ability to guide the US government in decisions related to immigration, health care, and more.
Eligibility for Federal Jobs
Many positions in government agencies require US citizenship.
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Become an elected official
Some naturalized citizens want to take a more active role in government. Many elected positions in this country require US citizenship. 14% of the members of the 117th US Congress are immigrants.
Manifestation of patriotism
Becoming a US citizen is a way to show your commitment to a new country.
Financial help
In many cases, only US citizens are eligible for government-provided financial aid grants, including college scholarships.
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