How can people become United States citizens?

Answers from the USCIS list

Give one of these answers. Words in light (parentheses) are optional.

• Be born in the United States, under the conditions set by the 14th Amendment
• Naturalize
• Derive citizenship optional: (under conditions set by Congress)

Our explanation

USCIS lists three ways. Some people are born in the U.S., under conditions set by the 14th Amendment. Others naturalize: they apply, pass the test and interview, and take the Oath. Others derive citizenship under conditions set by Congress.

Remember it

Three ways: born here under the 14th Amendment, naturalize (like you!), or derive citizenship.

Source

USCIS 2025 Study Guide (M-1175) p. 36; M-1778 answer list (three answers). Quote (p. 36): “Naturalization is one way that a person can become a U.S. citizen.” … “being born in the United States, under conditions set by the 14th Amendment.”

• 128 Civics Questions and Answers (2025 version), M-1778 (09/25) (PDF, USCIS)

Last checked on September 29, 2026.

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Easy to mix up with

• 97What amendment says all persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are U.S. citizens?