You’ve taken the Oath of Allegiance, congratulations! Becoming a U.S. citizen is a proud moment. But what comes next? There are a few important things to take care of so you can fully enjoy your new rights and benefits.
1. Apply for a U.S. Passport
Your naturalization certificate proves you’re a citizen, but a U.S. passport is your main travel document and a reliable form of ID.
- Use Form DS‑11 if this is your first passport.
- Visit a passport acceptance facility, like a post office. Find one here.
- Processing can take several weeks, so apply early if you plan to travel.
Read more here: How Do I Apply for a U.S. Passport?
2. Update Your Social Security Record
The Social Security Administration (SSA) needs to know your new status to keep your records accurate.
If you didn’t give USCIS permission to notify SSA at your ceremony, complete Form SS‑5 and bring it, along with your certificate, to your local SSA office.
3. Register to Vote
Voting is one of the most important rights you now have as a citizen. If you didn’t register during your ceremony, you can do it online at Vote.gov, or through your local election office.
4. Get Citizenship Documents for Your Children
If you have children under 18 who were green card holders when you became a citizen, they may have automatically become citizens too. You’ll want to get them official documentation.
Contact your immigration attorney to request a Certificate of Citizenship for your child.
5. Let Employers and Financial Institutions Know
Now that you’re a citizen, update your status with your employer (for Form I‑9), your bank, insurance companies, and other institutions. This ensures your records and benefits are accurate.
6. Protect Your Naturalization Certificate
Your certificate is a vital document. Store it in a safe place, like a fireproof safe. If it’s ever lost or damaged, you can replace it using Form N‑565.
7. Explore Trusted Traveler Programs or Enhanced IDs
Now that you’re a citizen, you may be eligible for programs that make travel easier.
- Global Entry lets you skip long lines at U.S. airports.
- Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (EDLs) are available in select states and can be used for land or sea travel to Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean.
- Learn more at DHS Trusted Traveler Programs.
8. Sponsor Family Members
As a U.S. citizen, you can petition for certain relatives to come live in the U.S. This includes your spouse, unmarried children, parents, and siblings.
Contact your immigration attorney to start the process.
Conclusion
Becoming a U.S. citizen opens the door to new opportunities and responsibilities. By taking these next steps, you’ll make the most of your new status, whether it’s voting for the first time, planning a trip abroad, or reuniting with family. If you need help with applications, forms, or immigration questions, our office is here to support you.
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If you have questions regarding a U.S. immigration matter, we invite you to contact our team at Richards and Jurusik for detailed guidance and assistance. We aim to provide the most accurate and up-to-date information to make your immigration process smoother and less stressful. The immigration lawyers at Richards and Jurusik have decades of experience helping people to work and live in the United States. Please read some of our hundreds of 5-star client reviews! Contact us today to assess your legal situation.
CHRISTINE JURUSIK is a Partner at Richards and Jurusik and Focuses her practice solely on U.S. Immigration law, with a specialized focus on advising families and individuals on the family-based immigration process and on obtaining U.S. Citizenship. She also handles Canadian Rehabilitation and DUI inadmissibility matters for U.S. Citizens seeking to overcome inadmissibility to Canada. (Full Bio)
