A citizen of the United States is a native-born, foreign-born or naturalized person who owes allegiance to the United States and who is entitled to the country's protection.
Permanent resident aliens may become naturalized US citizens after meeting requirements set forth in the immigration laws. In addition to the naturalization process, the United States recognizes the US citizenship of individuals according to two fundamental principles: jus soli, or right of birthplace, and jus sanguinis, or right of blood.
Citizens of the United States are entitled to unique rights and privileges (e.g., the right to vote, to serve on juries, to have a US passport), and cannot be deported or lose citizenship even if they commit a crime or choose to live elsewhere in the world.
