For many UK citizens who have made the United States their home as a lawful permanent resident (green card holder), the decision to take the final step and become a U.S. citizen carries significant implications, not all of which are necessarily welcome. Here are some pros and cons of making the leap from permanent resident to citizen of the United States—assuming you’re eligible, of course:

Pros of Becoming a U.S. Citizen

1. No Risk of Deportation: Green Card holders can be deported for certain crimes. U.S. citizenship eliminates this risk, providing a higher level of security and peace of mind.
2. No Renewal Hassles: Green Card holders will generally need to renew their cards every 10 years, which can be costly and stressful. U.S. citizenship removes this burden.
3. No Loss of Status Due to Extended Absences: Green card holders risk losing their permanent resident status if they spend extended periods outside the United States. Citizenship removes this concern, allowing you to live abroad without jeopardising your status.
4. Ease of Travel: U.S. citizens enjoy smoother reentry into the United States, as they can use U.S. channels at entry points.
5. Right to Vote: One of the most notable benefits of U.S. citizenship is the right to vote in federal, state, and local elections. This gives you a voice in shaping the laws and policies that govern the country.
6. Job Opportunities: Certain government jobs, especially federal positions, are available only to U.S. citizens. These roles often come with attractive benefits and job security, making citizenship an appealing option for career advancement.
7. Tax & Estate Considerations: Becoming a U.S. citizen can simplify and enhance your tax and estate planning strategies. For example, U.S. citizens have access to higher estate tax exemptions, meaning they can pass more of their estate to heirs tax-free. They can also transfer unlimited assets to a U.S. citizen spouse without facing estate taxes, a benefit not always available to Green Card holders.
8. Eligibility for Public Office: Only U.S. citizens can run for public office (which, admittedly, is not for everyone). While naturalized citizens may never be President, they can run for many other elected positions, providing an opportunity to directly influence public policy.
9. Family Reunification: U.S. citizens can petition for more family members, such as parents, siblings, and married children, to join them in the United States, often with shorter wait times compared to Green Card holders.
10. Citizenship for Children: Upon becoming a U.S. citizen, your children under 18 who are Green Card holders automatically become U.S. citizens, provided they meet certain residency and custodial requirements.
11. Consular Assistance Abroad: As a U.S. citizen, you gain access to assistance from U.S. embassies and consulates worldwide, providing support in emergencies or when dealing with legal matters abroad.

Cons of Becoming a U.S. Citizen

1. Renunciation Complications: Once you become a U.S. citizen, you should be aware that renouncing your citizenship can be a complicated and costly process, with potential tax consequences and the loss of U.S. protections and benefits.
2. Oath of Allegiance: Becoming a U.S. citizen involves taking an oath of allegiance to the United States, which some may find conflicts with their sense of loyalty to the UK.

Conclusion

Becoming a U.S. citizen offers many benefits, particularly in terms of security, job opportunities, and ease of travel. For UK citizens who plan to live in the U.S. permanently, the advantages to citizenships often outweigh the downsides. But at the end of the day, it’s a deeply personal decision.

transatlanticist

Oli Ward

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