Anyone who has committed a crime
- even if they have not served time in jail -
should talk to an immigration lawyer before filing any
immigration or naturalization applications.

As stated in our Disclaimer,
Kids' World has been designed to educate, not to offer legal advice or services.

For more information, visit the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Web Site.

Benefits of Becoming a U.S. Citizen

- Having a U.S. passport
- Government protection and assistance when abroad
- Serving on a jury
- The right to vote
- You can file to bring immediate family members to live in the U.S.
- Unmarried, permanent residents under age 18 automatically become citizens when both parents and single parents with child custody become citizens.
- The right to run and serve in public office
- Social security benefits
- You can live outside the U.S. without losing your citizenship
- You can work for the Federal Government
- Travelling in some foreign countries may be easier for you when you are a U.S. citizen

Obey the Laws = Prevention of Deportation!

- Do not violate any controlled substance law of the United States, any state, or any foreign country.
- Youth should stay away from gang activities, especially ones that commit crimes.
- Youth should stay away from drugs, alcohol, and weapons.
- Do not work without a work permit.
- Report any form of domestic violence (1-800-799-SAFE)
- Do not write bad checks or commit fraud
- Do not have sex with or get married to a minor
- Do not commit rape or sexual assault
- Do not shoplift, steal autos, or commit any form of burglary
- Do not get married to more than one person at a time
- Do not lie to gain immigration benefits
- Do not fail to complete any probation, parole, or suspended sentence before applying for naturalization
- Caution! Consult with a lawyer before applying for naturalization!

Crimes in Which an Immigrant or Refugee Could be Deported:

- Any crime against a person with an intent to harm
- Any crime against property or the Government that involves fraud
- Terrorist acts
- Illegal possession of a weapon, or illegally selling weapons
- Domestic violence
- Stalking
- Child abuse or neglect
- Auto theft or shoplifting
- Burglary of house or store
- Prostitution, or soliciting a prostitute
- Fistfights, especially when weapons are involved
- Kidnapping your girlfriend to marry her
- Possessing illegal drugs, using drugs, or selling drugs
- Rape or sexual assault
- Having sex with someone under the age of 18
- Lying to the police or judge about your name
- Using false papers to get a job
- Being involved with a gang that commits crimes
- Threatening to harm or kill someone
- Illegal gambling
- Fighting with law enforcement officer
- Writing bad checks