Can Permanent Residents Get a US Passport?
For many immigrants living in the United States, obtaining citizenship and a US passport is the ultimate goal. However, there is often confusion surrounding whether permanent residents are eligible to apply for a US passport. The answer to this question is not as straightforward as one might think, so let’s dive into the details to understand the process and requirements for permanent residents seeking to acquire a US passport.
First and foremost, it is important to differentiate between a permanent resident (green card holder) and a naturalized US citizen. Permanent residents are foreign nationals who have been granted the right to live and work in the United States indefinitely but are not considered US citizens. On the other hand, naturalized citizens have gone through the process of becoming a citizen and have all the rights and privileges that come with citizenship, including the ability to obtain a US passport.
So, can permanent residents get a US passport? The answer is yes and no. While permanent residents are not eligible to apply for a US passport, there are a few exceptions to this rule. One such exception is for permanent residents who served in the US armed forces. According to the US Department of State’s Foreign Affairs Manual, “a person who is not a US citizen but who served in the US armed forces during a designated period of hostility and was honorably discharged may be eligible to apply for a US passport.” This means that permanent residents who have served in the military may be able to obtain a US passport under certain circumstances.
Another exception to the rule is for children of US citizens who were born abroad. In some cases, children born to US citizen parents while abroad may be eligible for US citizenship and, subsequently, a US passport. This means that even if a child is not a US citizen by birth, they may still be able to become one through their parents and obtain a US passport.
In addition, some countries have reciprocal agreements with the United States that allow their citizens to apply for a US passport under certain conditions. For example, citizens of certain countries that are part of the Visa Waiver Program may be eligible to apply for a US passport if they meet the program’s requirements. However, these cases are rare and specific to each country’s agreement with the United States.
For most permanent residents, the path to US citizenship and a US passport involves going through the naturalization process. This process typically involves meeting certain eligibility requirements, such as being a permanent resident for a specified period of time, passing a civics and English test, and demonstrating good moral character. Once these requirements are met, permanent residents can apply for US citizenship through naturalization and, upon approval, obtain a US passport.
It is important for permanent residents to understand that the process of obtaining a US passport is not the same as applying for citizenship. While a US passport is a valuable document that allows individuals to travel internationally and re-enter the United States, it is not a substitute for citizenship. Permanent residents who wish to become US citizens should consider applying for naturalization to enjoy all the rights and privileges that come with citizenship, including the ability to vote and run for public office.
In conclusion, while permanent residents cannot apply for a US passport outright, there are exceptions to this rule for certain individuals, such as military veterans and children of US citizens born abroad. For most permanent residents, the path to obtaining a US passport involves becoming a citizen through the naturalization process. By understanding the requirements and process for naturalization, permanent residents can take the necessary steps to achieve their goal of becoming US citizens and obtaining a US passport.
