Citizenship in the United States comes with a lot of benefits. Citizens can run for and hold public office, travel with one of the world’s most powerful passports, and receive benefits. Here are 18 benefits of being an American citizen.
Education Benefits
American citizens have free access to all levels of public education. They also benefit from government grants and scholarships and lower-interest student loans. Some public schools and universities offer much lower tuition rates to American citizens.
Employment Opportunities
Becoming an American citizen comes with employment opportunities denied to green card holders. Boundless explains that “most federal employment is reserved only for U.S. citizens” and that “federal employees and their families tend to receive relatively better benefits and earnings than private-sector workers.”
Travel Privileges
Americans have one of the world’s most powerful passports and can travel to over 180 destinations for visa-free short-term trips. They can take as many trips abroad as they want and receive assistance from U.S. embassies and consulates abroad.
Family Reunification
American citizens can bring their foreign relatives to the country via family-based nonimmigrant visas. Their family can then seek permanent resident status, whether they are fiancées, spouses, or children.
Property Ownership
If they have the money, American citizens can own property across the nation and its territories without restriction on the type or size of the property. Investopedia notes that while non-citizens can own a home, “it comes with a bit of extra work.”
Legal Protections
The federal laws and regulations of the country protect American citizens. They include a right to a fair trial and free legal representation, freedom of speech, religion, assembly, and, in some states, the right to carry firearms openly.
Right to Vote
USA.gov explains that “Non-citizens, including permanent legal residents, cannot vote in federal, state, and most local elections,” while American citizens can. Becoming an American citizen allows people to participate in the democratic process and influence government policies and leadership.
Financial Assistance
American citizens are eligible for various government loans, including those for agriculture, business, education, and housing, that must be repaid, often with interest. Citizens can also access disaster relief and assistance during emergencies.
Business Opportunities
American citizens nationwide can start and own businesses with legal protection under U.S. business laws. Millions have moved to the country over the past century with this goal and set up businesses that have become incredibly successful.
Political Rights
American citizens can run for public office, with some restrictions. The president must be born in the United States, but senators and mayors only need a few years of citizenship to run for office. Arnold Schwarzenegger was famously the governor of California from 2003 to 2011.
Jury Duty
Citizens have a right and responsibility to serve on a jury and participate in the judicial process. They are randomly selected and can influence legal outcomes and community justice when presented with evidence and testimony from the defense and prosecution.
Social Security Benefits
American citizens are eligible for full social security benefits, notably retirement benefits for those aged 62 and older, based on their pre-retirement salary. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services explains that some citizens can also access Medicare and Medicaid for health coverage.
Tax Benefits
Americans have access to certain tax deductions and credits to reduce their overall tax bills, as well as exclusions and shelters. They can also participate in tax-advantaged retirement accounts, including 401(k)s.
Healthcare Access
Citizens are eligible for federal healthcare programs, including Medicare, Medicaid, TRICARE, the Veterans Health Administration, and the Indian Health Service. Nine million veterans are enrolled in the VHA and receive primary and specialized care.
Cultural Exchange
Citizens can participate in various cultural exchange programs sponsored by the U.S. Department of State, including the Youth Ambassadors Program and Peace Corps English Teacher. They can travel to countries worldwide and learn about different cultures and languages.
Protection from Deportation
Lawful permanent residents of America can be deported under certain criminal convictions and even some non-criminal activities. Citizens convicted of a crime aren’t at risk of deportation and can only have their citizenship removed under rare circumstances.
Civic Participation
American citizens can engage in community service and volunteer opportunities, as well as influencing community planning and development. They can also participate in civic education and leadership programs.
Citizenship for Children
The children of American citizens are also citizens, with the same benefits and rights as any other, even if they were born in a different country. If their children are born abroad, they must report the birth to an American consulate or embassy.
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