Naturalization for Nationals in Outlying Possessions

Summary#

This bill changes the immigration law to give certain nationals a simpler path to become citizens. It replaces the current section on nationals and residence. Key points in the bill text:

  • A person who is a national but not a citizen and who owes permanent allegiance may be naturalized if otherwise qualified.
  • If the person becomes a resident of any State, residence and physical presence can include time spent in outlying possessions.
  • If a person has continuously lived in any State or outlying possession from birth until approval, they may be naturalized without meeting sections 312 and 337(a) and without meeting paragraphs (1) and (2) of section 316(a).
  • The Secretary must make naturalization applications, interviews, oaths, and ceremonies available in outlying possessions for certain applicants.
  • The bill says a continuous absence over 180 days generally breaks continuous residence unless the person proves otherwise.
  • The Secretary may waive a personal interview for some applicants and may set a reduced fee for some naturalization applications.
  • It also amends the child-citizenship rule to allow children who are present and reside in outlying possessions to be covered.

What it means for you#

If you are a national who has lived in an outlying possession or a State, this bill could let you apply for citizenship under relaxed rules in some cases. You might not have to meet certain listed requirements, you might be able to complete parts of the process where you live, an interview could be waived, and a lower fee might apply for some applicants.

Expenses#

The bill allows the Secretary to charge a reduced fee for some applications, but it does not provide numbers or a full fiscal estimate. No publicly available information.

Proponents' View#

The bill text says nationals and citizens both owe permanent allegiance. It notes nationals serve in the armed forces at a high per-person rate, that some need citizenship for officer commissions or security clearances, and that many nationals want citizenship. Supporters in the bill argue these nationals should have an expedited path without moving, extra testing, or cost burdens, and that services should be available in outlying possessions.

Opponents' View#

No publicly available information.