US Citizenship and the 2024 Election: Understanding the Naturalization Process
July 31, 2024

Country / Territory
Related contacts
Related offices
Related contacts
Related offices
Related contacts
Related offices
Across the world, 2024 has been dubbed the “Super Election” year, as it is the biggest election year in history.
This year, more than 70 elections will take place around the world, and the US is no exception. It is anticipated that for the first time, more than half of the global population will be eligible to vote.
To be eligible to vote in the US presidential election, you must be a US citizen. It is poised to be a critical election year in the US, with immigration remaining a hot campaign topic.
This blog discusses the process of becoming a US citizen (e.g., naturalization) and the benefits. Interested applicants are encouraged to proceed without delay. While the application process can be overwhelming, many resources can assist.
Naturalization Overview
Naturalization is the process of becoming an American citizen if you were born outside of the US. To be eligible for citizenship, you must meet the following criteria:
-
-
- Be at least 18 years of age;
- Have been a lawful permanent resident for at least five years and physically present in the United States for at least 30 months within the last five years;
-
- If married to a US citizen, have been a lawful permanent resident for at least three years and physically present in the US for 18 months out of the last three years.
-
- Be able to read, write and speak basic English;
- Have a basic understanding of US history and government;
- Be a person of good moral character, attached to the principles of the US Constitution, and well-disposed to the good order and happiness of the US.
-
Processing times for naturalization applications can vary depending on where you live. During an election year, we have observed the immigration service accelerate processing times resulting in quicker approvals, making it a good time to apply.
Benefits of Applying for US Citizenship
US citizens enjoy many benefits that are not available to lawful permanent residents (e.g., green card holders). Some of those benefits include:
-
-
- The right to vote in local, state and federal elections;
- Protection from deportation;
- Eligibility to petition for family members;
- Elimination of the requirement to renew your green card;
- Right to apply for federal benefits without restriction;
- Automatic acquisition of citizenship for children under 18 in the custody of the naturalizing parent;
- Travel without restrictions – US passport holders can travel to many countries without a visa; and
- Ability to take lengthy absences from the US without the worry that you may have abandoned your residency.
-
In addition, policies surrounding international travel can be heavily influenced by the presidential elections, which can lead to uncertainty and unpredictability for lawful permanent residents.
For example, in 2020, former President Trump issued several executive orders restricting travel for visa holders and permanent residents (even in some emergency circumstances). While some of those orders were implemented due to the global pandemic, the suddenness by which some of the orders were issued left many people anxious and stranded. US citizens were (and continue to be) protected from these types of travel restrictions.
A change in administration could also lead to an increase in the promotion of employment opportunities for US citizens versus visa holders or lawful permanent residents.
Need to Know More?
This blog outlines just some of the reasons why eligible applicants may want to consider applying for naturalization at this time. As always, consulting with an immigration attorney is crucial to understanding the nuances of naturalization and ensuring a successful application process.
For more information on pursuing naturalization, please contact Partner Isha Atassi at [email protected] and Senior Associate Kimberly Tracey at [email protected].
This blog was published on July 31, 2024, and due to the circumstances, there are frequent changes. To keep up to date with all the latest updates on global immigration, please subscribe to our alerts and follow us on LinkedIn, X, Facebook and Instagram.
Country / Territory
Related contacts
Related offices
Related contacts
Related offices
Related contacts
Related offices
Explore more at Fragomen

Media mentions
Partner Rick Lamanna discusses the potential option of decentralizing work permit issuance in Canada, emphasizing the need for clear coordination between the provincial and federal governments.

Video
Fragomen FC hosts are joined by Manager Alexander Hood to examine how immigration rules are reshaping global football, from EPL transfers to the rise of international transfers into the Women’s Super League.

Media mentions
Partner Aaron Blumberg noted that enhanced screening measures, including social media vetting, may be contributing to delays in US student visa processing.

Media mentions
Associate Ilaria Iovieno outlines how recent UK immigration reforms will impact construction employers and their ability to sponsor overseas talent.

Media mentions

Media mentions
Senior Associate Tayyaba Karim and Associates Aisha Shahid and Yinny Tan outline how UK immigration changes affect tech talent access and business alignment.

Media mentions
Partner Parisa Karaahmet is quoted on a new country-specific, $250 "visa integrity fee" introduced by the current US administration as part of a domestic policy bill.

Media mentions
Paralegal Sean Pearce discusses the UK government's immigration White Paper in the context of its Industrial Strategy, noting the importance of overseas talent in meeting infrastructure and housing goals.

Video
In this Mobility Minute, Partner Christian Dallman shares an update on US tariffs as the August 1 deadline for trade negotiations approaches.

Media mentions
Partner Haider Hussain discussed how Saudi Arabia’s new skill-based work permit system is reshaping employer compliance and recruitment strategies.

Podcast
Director Caroline Kanzara-Obinwa and Manager Tarissa Wareley are joined by Bloomfield Law Practice's Kunle Obebe and Peace Lotechukwu to discuss Nigeria's 2025 visa policy reforms.

Media mentions
Associate Yinny Tan outlines how proposed UK immigration changes may affect workforce planning and talent access in the wind industry.

Media mentions
Partner Rick Lamanna discusses the potential option of decentralizing work permit issuance in Canada, emphasizing the need for clear coordination between the provincial and federal governments.

Video
Fragomen FC hosts are joined by Manager Alexander Hood to examine how immigration rules are reshaping global football, from EPL transfers to the rise of international transfers into the Women’s Super League.

Media mentions
Partner Aaron Blumberg noted that enhanced screening measures, including social media vetting, may be contributing to delays in US student visa processing.

Media mentions
Associate Ilaria Iovieno outlines how recent UK immigration reforms will impact construction employers and their ability to sponsor overseas talent.

Media mentions

Media mentions
Senior Associate Tayyaba Karim and Associates Aisha Shahid and Yinny Tan outline how UK immigration changes affect tech talent access and business alignment.

Media mentions
Partner Parisa Karaahmet is quoted on a new country-specific, $250 "visa integrity fee" introduced by the current US administration as part of a domestic policy bill.

Media mentions
Paralegal Sean Pearce discusses the UK government's immigration White Paper in the context of its Industrial Strategy, noting the importance of overseas talent in meeting infrastructure and housing goals.

Video
In this Mobility Minute, Partner Christian Dallman shares an update on US tariffs as the August 1 deadline for trade negotiations approaches.

Media mentions
Partner Haider Hussain discussed how Saudi Arabia’s new skill-based work permit system is reshaping employer compliance and recruitment strategies.

Podcast
Director Caroline Kanzara-Obinwa and Manager Tarissa Wareley are joined by Bloomfield Law Practice's Kunle Obebe and Peace Lotechukwu to discuss Nigeria's 2025 visa policy reforms.

Media mentions
Associate Yinny Tan outlines how proposed UK immigration changes may affect workforce planning and talent access in the wind industry.