Citizenship

This passage describes the process of applying for U.S. citizenship.

Lexile Level: 390L

Categories: People & Places

People born in this country are U.S. citizens. There are many people in this country. Some of them were not born here. Some of them are not citizens. People from other countries can apply to become U.S. citizens. They must follow three steps. First, they fill out an application form. The form tells about each person's history. The government also asks for fingerprints. Next, the applicants take a test on U.S. government and history. Then, they go to court. They tell a judge why they want to become a citizen. The judge makes a decision. The judge's decision is final. People want to become citizens because citizens have special rights. Citizens can vote. Their vote decides who runs the country. Citizens are fully protected by American laws. Citizens also have special duties. They serve on juries. They pay taxes.