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Children Born Out Of Country To United States Citizen Parents

Children Born Out Of Country To United States Citizen Parents

July 27, 2023
March 14, 2024

Citizenship for Children Born Abroad to U.S. Parents

Having a child born outside of the United States can present additional obstacles when it comes to getting your child American citizenship. However, if you are a U.S. citizen who has a child born abroad, there are several options available for you to get your child U.S. citizenship. 

This blog post will guide you through the process of getting citizenship for your child and the important steps that you need to take.

1. Check Eligibility

Before proceeding with the birth abroad process, it is essential to confirm that your child is eligible for U.S. citizenship. Generally, the following requirements must be met:- At least one of the child's parents must have been a U.S citizen when the child was born.- The parent must have lived in the U.S for a certain period before the child's birth.- In some cases, if the parent is a U.S. citizen by birth but has never lived in the U.S, additional requirements may need to be met.For those who meet the eligibility requirements, you can move on to the next step.

2. Obtain Proof of your U.S. Citizenship

The first step towards getting U.S. citizenship for your child is to obtain proof of your own U.S. citizenship. You can do this by obtaining your U.S. passport or your Certificate of Naturalization or Citizenship. This document will be required for the next stage in the process.

3. Collect Required Documents

After you have obtained proof of your U.S. citizenship, the next step is to collect the required documents for your child’s citizenship application. You will need your child’s birth certificate, proof of your own U.S. citizenship, and a passport-sized photo of your child.

4. File An Application for Consular Report of Birth Abroad

You will need to file an application for a Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA) at the U.S. embassy or consulate in the country where your child was born. This document is the equivalent of a U.S. birth certificate and serves as proof of your child’s U.S. citizenship.

5. Apply For Your Child's Passport

After obtaining the CRBA, you can apply for your child’s U.S. passport. This document is essential for international travel and is proof of your child’s U.S. citizenship.

6. Get Your Child a Social Security Number

Finally, you will need to get your child a Social Security Number (SSN). You can apply for the SSN at any Social Security Administration office. This number is required for your child to be able to work or to receive any government benefits in the future.

Conclusion:

Getting U.S. citizenship for your child born abroad to U.S. citizens is a process that can take several months. An experienced Immigration Attorney can help guide you through the process and the filings. By starting the process early and being well-prepared with all the necessary documents, you can ensure that the process goes as smoothly as possible. 

Once you have obtained U.S. citizenship for your child, your child will have all the benefits and privileges of being a U.S. citizen, including the ability to travel and work in the United States, vote, and access government benefits.

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Frequetly Asked Questions

What is DACA?

DACA, or Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, is a program that offers a lifeline to undocumented individuals who came to the U.S. as kids. It helps protect them from deportation and allows them to work legally.

Can a Lawyer Expedite My Immigration Case?

Absolutely, a lawyer can potentially accelerate your immigration case by adeptly navigating legal complexities and advocating on your behalf within the bounds of the law and available procedures.

How Much Does an Immigration Lawyer Cost?

The cost of an immigration lawyer varies depending on factors such as the complexity of the case, the attorney's experience, and the services required. Read our FAQ to learn more.

What is an Alien Registration Number (A-Number)?

An Alien Registration Number (or A-number) is a unique number essential for tracking your immigration journey, from applying for residency to securing U.S. citizenship. Whether you’re filing a green card application, applying for a work permit, or petitioning for a visa, your A-number plays a crucial role in keeping your paperwork in order.

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