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United States Naturalization and Citizenship (view source)
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''[[United States|United States]] [[Image:Gotoarrow.png]] [[ | ''[[United States|United States]] [[Image:Gotoarrow.png]] [[United_States_Naturalization_and_Citizenship|Naturalization and Citizenship]]'' [[Image:{{Naturalization Photo}}|thumb|right]] | ||
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= NATURALIZATION RECORDS [[Image:Flag and gavel.jpg|thumb|right]] = | = NATURALIZATION RECORDS [[Image:Flag and gavel.jpg|thumb|right]] = | ||
== Most Popular Websites for Naturalization Records == | == Most Popular Websites for Naturalization Records == | ||
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{| | {| width="611" cellspacing="1" cellpadding="1" border="1" align="center" | ||
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| '''''Website Links''''' | | '''''Website Links''''' | ||
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| [[United States Naturalization and Citizenship#On_the_Internet|About USCIS]] | | [[United States Naturalization and Citizenship#On_the_Internet|About USCIS]] | ||
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| [http://www.germanroots.com/naturalization.html Online Searchable Naturalization Indexes & Records]<br> | | [http://www.germanroots.com/naturalization.html Online Searchable Naturalization Indexes & Records]<br> | ||
| [[United States Naturalization and Citizenship#On_the_Internet|About Online Searchable Naturalization Indexes & Records]] | | [[United States Naturalization and Citizenship#On_the_Internet|About Online Searchable Naturalization Indexes & Records]] | ||
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<br> | <br> | ||
== Why Use This Record?<br> == | == Why Use This Record?<br> == | ||
<u>'''Naturalization Overview <br>'''</u> | <u>'''Naturalization Overview <br>'''</u> | ||
Naturalization is the process of granting citizenship privileges and responsibilities to foreign-born residents. Naturalization papers are an important source of information about an immigrant's nation of origin, his foreign and “Americanized” names, residence, and date of arrival. <br> | Naturalization is the process of granting citizenship privileges and responsibilities to foreign-born residents. Naturalization papers are an important source of information about an immigrant's nation of origin, his foreign and “Americanized” names, residence, and date of arrival. <br> | ||
Immigrants to the United States have never been required to apply for citizenship. An immigrant could become a citizen anytime after they arrived in the United States. Of those who applied, many did not complete the requirements to become a citizen. <br> | Immigrants to the United States have never been required to apply for citizenship. An immigrant could become a citizen anytime after they arrived in the United States. Of those who applied, many did not complete the requirements to become a citizen. <br> | ||
== Record Content<br> == | == Record Content<br> == | ||
Before 1906, the information recorded on naturalization records differed widely. Naturalization records before 1906 are not likely to give town of origin or names of parents. However, naturalization records after 1906 contain more information than earlier records. Information in post-1906 records is more detailed and may include birth dates, birth places, and other immigration information about the immigrant and members of his family.<br> | Before 1906, the information recorded on naturalization records differed widely. Naturalization records before 1906 are not likely to give town of origin or names of parents. However, naturalization records after 1906 contain more information than earlier records. Information in post-1906 records is more detailed and may include birth dates, birth places, and other immigration information about the immigrant and members of his family.<br> | ||
Before 1906, naturalization records may contain:<br> | Before 1906, naturalization records may contain:<br> | ||
:*Port of arrival | :*Port of arrival | ||
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:*Country of origin or allegiance | :*Country of origin or allegiance | ||
In 1906, the Bureau of Immigration and Naturalization was created. <ref name="Schaefer">Schaefer, Christina K. ''Guide to Naturalization Records of the United States'' (Baltimore, MD: Christina K. Schaefer, 1997).</ref> (Later called Immigration and Naturalization Services or INS.) The result was standardized forms throughout the country and a copy of the naturalization papers sent to the INS in addition to the court keeping a copy.<br> | In 1906, the Bureau of Immigration and Naturalization was created. <ref name="Schaefer">Schaefer, Christina K. ''Guide to Naturalization Records of the United States'' (Baltimore, MD: Christina K. Schaefer, 1997).</ref> (Later called Immigration and Naturalization Services or INS.) The result was standardized forms throughout the country and a copy of the naturalization papers sent to the INS in addition to the court keeping a copy.<br> | ||
After 1906, naturalization records may contain:<br> | After 1906, naturalization records may contain:<br> | ||
:*Birth date & place of immigrant | :*Birth date & place of immigrant | ||
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== Naturalization Process and Coverage == | == Naturalization Process and Coverage == | ||
Naturalization records began in Colonial times. The requirements and process of naturalization have changed many times over the years. The basic requirements have been residency in the country for a given period of time, good moral character, and an oath of loyalty or allegiance given in a court of record.<br> | Naturalization records began in Colonial times. The requirements and process of naturalization have changed many times over the years. The basic requirements have been residency in the country for a given period of time, good moral character, and an oath of loyalty or allegiance given in a court of record.<br> | ||
=== Colonial Naturalization (Pre-1790) === | === Colonial Naturalization (Pre-1790) === | ||
British immigrants were automatically citizens of the colonies (British Empire). Seven of the original colonies had their own laws for naturalizing foreigners as citizens of the British Empire colony. After the Revolutionary War, the individual states established their own naturalization laws and procedures. <br> | British immigrants were automatically citizens of the colonies (British Empire). Seven of the original colonies had their own laws for naturalizing foreigners as citizens of the British Empire colony. After the Revolutionary War, the individual states established their own naturalization laws and procedures. <br> | ||
<u>'''3 Types of Colonial Naturalization'''</u><br> | <u>'''3 Types of Colonial Naturalization'''</u><br> | ||
:'''Denization'''--A type of naturalization used to obtain land. You could buy and sell land, but could not hold public office. There were no political privileges associated with denization. | :'''Denization'''--A type of naturalization used to obtain land. You could buy and sell land, but could not hold public office. There were no political privileges associated with denization. | ||
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:*Occupation | :*Occupation | ||
=== Naturalization After 1906<br> === | === Naturalization After 1906<br> === | ||
When the INS was created in 1906, other naturalization records were created to process naturalizations and keep track of immigrants in the United States. Copies of these documents are only in the possession of the former INS, now [http://www.uscis.gov/portal/site/uscis United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)]. A summary of some of these documents are listed below: | When the INS was created in 1906, other naturalization records were created to process naturalizations and keep track of immigrants in the United States. Copies of these documents are only in the possession of the former INS, now [http://www.uscis.gov/portal/site/uscis United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)]. A summary of some of these documents are listed below: | ||
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:<u>'''Certificate of Arrival, 1906 to the present'''</u>--After 1906 an immigrant was required to submit a certificate of arrival when he petitioned for citizenship in order to prove the length of his residency. This document gives the place of entry, manner of arrival, and date of arrival. This was kept in the file with the petition. | :<u>'''Certificate of Arrival, 1906 to the present'''</u>--After 1906 an immigrant was required to submit a certificate of arrival when he petitioned for citizenship in order to prove the length of his residency. This document gives the place of entry, manner of arrival, and date of arrival. This was kept in the file with the petition. | ||
:<u>'''Certificate of Registry'''</u>--A certificate created by the INS to document immigrants who arrived prior to July 1, 1924 to the United States where no original arrival record could | :<u>'''Certificate of Registry'''</u>--A certificate created by the INS to document immigrants who arrived prior to July 1, 1924 to the United States where no original arrival record could be located. | ||
:<u>'''Visa and Application'''</u>--Began with the Immigration Act of 1924. All aliens had to have a Visa to enter the United States. Visas were obtained at US Embassies and Consulates abroad. Visa Files contain birth information, parents, children, previous residence and a photograph beginning in 1929. | :<u>'''Visa and Application'''</u>--Began with the Immigration Act of 1924. All aliens had to have a Visa to enter the United States. Visas were obtained at US Embassies and Consulates abroad. Visa Files contain birth information, parents, children, previous residence and a photograph beginning in 1929. | ||
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{{Naturalization States}} | {{Naturalization States}} | ||
== Locating Naturalization Records<br> == | == Locating Naturalization Records<br> == | ||
=== By Time Period - What to Know Before Searching<br> === | === By Time Period - What to Know Before Searching<br> === | ||
==== Colonial Naturalization Records (Pre-1790)<br> ==== | ==== Colonial Naturalization Records (Pre-1790)<br> ==== | ||
Naturalization records before 1790 differ vastly from later naturalization records. Colonial naturalizations consist mostly of lists of those that took the oath of allegience. The colony where the immigrant was living had jurisdiction over naturalizations. | Naturalization records before 1790 differ vastly from later naturalization records. Colonial naturalizations consist mostly of lists of those that took the oath of allegience. The colony where the immigrant was living had jurisdiction over naturalizations. | ||
A good source to begin searching for colonial naturalization records is William P. Filby's ''Passenger and Immigration Lists Index, 1500s- 1900s. ''This source has indexed published passenger lists as well as early published naturalization records. ''Passenger and Immigration Lists Index, 1500s- 1900s ''includes the original sources where the information came from. <br> | A good source to begin searching for colonial naturalization records is William P. Filby's ''Passenger and Immigration Lists Index, 1500s- 1900s. ''This source has indexed published passenger lists as well as early published naturalization records. ''Passenger and Immigration Lists Index, 1500s- 1900s ''includes the original sources where the information came from. <br> | ||
''Passenger and Immigration Lists Index, 1500s- 1900s ''is available in book form, CD-ROM, and Ancestry.com. There are several sets and supplements that have been added to the original publication. The most current supplement, 2009 is in book form and not included in the CD-ROM or Ancestry.com database. | ''Passenger and Immigration Lists Index, 1500s- 1900s ''is available in book form, CD-ROM, and Ancestry.com. There are several sets and supplements that have been added to the original publication. The most current supplement, 2009 is in book form and not included in the CD-ROM or Ancestry.com database. | ||
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You may need to search the records of each place where your immigrant ancestor lived to locate both naturalization records. He may have filed the declartion of intention in one court in one state and filed the petition several years later in another court and state. Begin first by looking for naturalization records in the courts of the county or city where the immigrant settled. Most likely the petition (second papers) was filed in that county or city. | You may need to search the records of each place where your immigrant ancestor lived to locate both naturalization records. He may have filed the declartion of intention in one court in one state and filed the petition several years later in another court and state. Begin first by looking for naturalization records in the courts of the county or city where the immigrant settled. Most likely the petition (second papers) was filed in that county or city. | ||
==== Records Since September 1906 <br> ==== | ==== Records Since September 1906 <br> ==== | ||
Beginning in September 1906, the federal government began regulating the naturalization process. The Bureau of Immigration and Naturalization (now the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services or USCIS) required specific forms for declarations and petitions. Only these forms could be used and the Bureau controlled the number of courts able to naturalize by controlling distribution of the forms. However, both state and federal courts were allowed to naturalize.<br> | Beginning in September 1906, the federal government began regulating the naturalization process. The Bureau of Immigration and Naturalization (now the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services or USCIS) required specific forms for declarations and petitions. Only these forms could be used and the Bureau controlled the number of courts able to naturalize by controlling distribution of the forms. However, both state and federal courts were allowed to naturalize.<br> | ||
The Declaration of Intent (Form 2202) was completed in triplicate. The court kept the original and gave copies to the applicant and the Bureau. The applicant was to use the declaration to apply for the petition. If the declaration is still in possession of the family, the immigrant probably did not complete the process and was not a citizen. The Petition for Naturalization (Form 2204) was kept by the court and a duplicate was sent to the INS. The Certificate of Naturalization (Form 2207) was given to the new citizen and a stub of the Certificate was kept in the court to prove it was issued. A duplicate of the petition was sent to the INS. | The Declaration of Intent (Form 2202) was completed in triplicate. The court kept the original and gave copies to the applicant and the Bureau. The applicant was to use the declaration to apply for the petition. If the declaration is still in possession of the family, the immigrant probably did not complete the process and was not a citizen. The Petition for Naturalization (Form 2204) was kept by the court and a duplicate was sent to the INS. The Certificate of Naturalization (Form 2207) was given to the new citizen and a stub of the Certificate was kept in the court to prove it was issued. A duplicate of the petition was sent to the INS. | ||
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In 1929 the INS changed the forms and required photographs of the applicants. Because the new forms were not distributed immediately, many state courts ceased naturalizing. However, naturalizations were still taking place in local county courts as well as federal courts and the records of any court still naturalizing should be consulted to locate your ancestor's records. | In 1929 the INS changed the forms and required photographs of the applicants. Because the new forms were not distributed immediately, many state courts ceased naturalizing. However, naturalizations were still taking place in local county courts as well as federal courts and the records of any court still naturalizing should be consulted to locate your ancestor's records. | ||
=== Finding Naturalization Records<br> === | === Finding Naturalization Records<br> === | ||
Immigrants could naturalize in any court that performed naturalizations. That included city, county, state and federal courts. After 1906, federal courts naturalized many immigrants, however, other local courts continued to naturalize as late as 1985. Check all possible courts in the area your ancestor lived. | Immigrants could naturalize in any court that performed naturalizations. That included city, county, state and federal courts. After 1906, federal courts naturalized many immigrants, however, other local courts continued to naturalize as late as 1985. Check all possible courts in the area your ancestor lived. | ||
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One federal court that may contain your ancestor's naturalization records is the District Court. However, to search the these records you must first determine the correct district court. Click on [[United States District Court Jurisdictions|United States District Court Jurisdictions]] to help you identify the correct District Court. You must know the county your ancestor resided in. | One federal court that may contain your ancestor's naturalization records is the District Court. However, to search the these records you must first determine the correct district court. Click on [[United States District Court Jurisdictions|United States District Court Jurisdictions]] to help you identify the correct District Court. You must know the county your ancestor resided in. | ||
==== On the Internet<br> ==== | ==== On the Internet<br> ==== | ||
There are many online resources available for researching naturalization records. These online resources include naturalization indexes as well as digital images of naturalization records. ''<br>'' | There are many online resources available for researching naturalization records. These online resources include naturalization indexes as well as digital images of naturalization records. ''<br>'' | ||
<br> | <br> | ||
:'''[http://www.germanroots.com/naturalization.html ''Online Searchable Naturalization Indexes and Records'']'''''--''This website contains links to naturalization indexes and records. It is arranged by state and gives the statewide indexes and records first. It then gives the countywide indexes and records. This website is updated regularly and is a great source to begin searching for naturalization records on the Internet. | :'''[http://www.germanroots.com/naturalization.html ''Online Searchable Naturalization Indexes and Records'']'''''--''This website contains links to naturalization indexes and records. It is arranged by state and gives the statewide indexes and records first. It then gives the countywide indexes and records. This website is updated regularly and is a great source to begin searching for naturalization records on the Internet. | ||
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:[http://www.uscis.gov/portal/site/uscis '''''United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)''''']--After 1906, a copy of all naturalization records were sent to the Immigration and Naturalization Service or INS, now called the USCIS. You may access their records through the [http://www.uscis.gov/portal/site/uscis/menuitem.eb1d4c2a3e5b9ac89243c6a7543f6d1a/?vgnextoid=d21f3711ca5ca110VgnVCM1000004718190aRCRD&vgnextchannel=d21f3711ca5ca110VgnVCM1000004718190aRCRD USCIS Genealogy Program]. Their website is [http://www.uscis.gov www.uscis.gov]. More details are listed below under, ''Using the Genealogy Program at the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services.'''''<br>''' | :[http://www.uscis.gov/portal/site/uscis '''''United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)''''']--After 1906, a copy of all naturalization records were sent to the Immigration and Naturalization Service or INS, now called the USCIS. You may access their records through the [http://www.uscis.gov/portal/site/uscis/menuitem.eb1d4c2a3e5b9ac89243c6a7543f6d1a/?vgnextoid=d21f3711ca5ca110VgnVCM1000004718190aRCRD&vgnextchannel=d21f3711ca5ca110VgnVCM1000004718190aRCRD USCIS Genealogy Program]. Their website is [http://www.uscis.gov www.uscis.gov]. More details are listed below under, ''Using the Genealogy Program at the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services.'''''<br>''' | ||
==== At the Family History Library <br> ==== | ==== At the Family History Library <br> ==== | ||
Naturalization records at the library are listed in the Place Search of the Family History Library Catalog under one of the following: <br> [STATE] - NATURALIZATION AND CITIZENSHIP <br> [STATE], [COUNTY] - NATURALIZATION AND CITIZENSHIP <br> [STATE], [COUNTY], [TOWN] - NATURALIZATION AND CITIZENSHIP <br> | Naturalization records at the library are listed in the Place Search of the Family History Library Catalog under one of the following: <br> [STATE] - NATURALIZATION AND CITIZENSHIP <br> [STATE], [COUNTY] - NATURALIZATION AND CITIZENSHIP <br> [STATE], [COUNTY], [TOWN] - NATURALIZATION AND CITIZENSHIP <br> | ||
The library has also acquired large collections of naturalization records from the National Archives branches in Atlanta, Chicago, Los Angeles, New York, and Seattle. | The library has also acquired large collections of naturalization records from the National Archives branches in Atlanta, Chicago, Los Angeles, New York, and Seattle. | ||
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In some states, naturalization records are included in other court records and are not separately identified. Search the Wiki for the name of the state and the word "naturalization" to help you locate these records. | In some states, naturalization records are included in other court records and are not separately identified. Search the Wiki for the name of the state and the word "naturalization" to help you locate these records. | ||
A key reference book is: <br>• Schaefer, Christina K. ''Guide to Naturalization Records in the United States''. Baltimore, Maryland: Genealogical Publishing Company, 1997. (FHL book 973 P4s.) It identifies records at both the National Archives and the Family History Library. It also describes many state and county courthouse collections. This book was published in 1997 and has not been updated. The Family History Library has added naturalization records to their collection since the publication.<br> | A key reference book is: <br>• Schaefer, Christina K. ''Guide to Naturalization Records in the United States''. Baltimore, Maryland: Genealogical Publishing Company, 1997. (FHL book 973 P4s.) It identifies records at both the National Archives and the Family History Library. It also describes many state and county courthouse collections. This book was published in 1997 and has not been updated. The Family History Library has added naturalization records to their collection since the publication.<br> | ||
==== At Regional Archives and other Repositories<br> ==== | ==== At Regional Archives and other Repositories<br> ==== | ||
The clerk of the court where the immigrant was naturalized may still have the original records. Some copies of court naturalization records have been transferred to National Archives regional branches. Check these Regional Branches for Federal Court Records as they charge less than the [http://www.uscis.gov/portal/site/uscis/menuitem.eb1d4c2a3e5b9ac89243c6a7543f6d1a/?vgnextoid=d21f3711ca5ca110VgnVCM1000004718190aRCRD&vgnextchannel=d21f3711ca5ca110VgnVCM1000004718190aRCRD USCIS]. | The clerk of the court where the immigrant was naturalized may still have the original records. Some copies of court naturalization records have been transferred to National Archives regional branches. Check these Regional Branches for Federal Court Records as they charge less than the [http://www.uscis.gov/portal/site/uscis/menuitem.eb1d4c2a3e5b9ac89243c6a7543f6d1a/?vgnextoid=d21f3711ca5ca110VgnVCM1000004718190aRCRD&vgnextchannel=d21f3711ca5ca110VgnVCM1000004718190aRCRD USCIS]. | ||
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National Archive regional branches have websites that often state which naturalization records they have available. To locate the regional branch covering the location of the court where the naturalization document was filed, click [http://www.archives.gov/locations/ here]. | National Archive regional branches have websites that often state which naturalization records they have available. To locate the regional branch covering the location of the court where the naturalization document was filed, click [http://www.archives.gov/locations/ here]. | ||
==== Using the Genealogy Program at the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services <br> ==== | ==== Using the Genealogy Program at the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services <br> ==== | ||
The [http://www.uscis.gov/portal/site/uscis United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)] has instituted the [http://www.uscis.gov/portal/site/uscis/menuitem.eb1d4c2a3e5b9ac89243c6a7543f6d1a/?vgnextchannel=d21f3711ca5ca110VgnVCM1000004718190aRCRD&vgnextoid=d21f3711ca5ca110VgnVCM1000004718190aRCRD Genealogy Program] for public access to all records from 1906 to 1956 created by this agency, formerly Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS). Review the [http://www.uscis.gov/portal/site/uscis/menuitem.5af9bb95919f35e66f614176543f6d1a/?vgnextoid=3e0c69a3a0331110VgnVCM1000000ecd190aRCRD&vgnextchannel=d21f3711ca5ca110VgnVCM1000004718190aRCRD Genealogy Frequently Asked Questions website] to expedite your order and ensure success for your request. | The [http://www.uscis.gov/portal/site/uscis United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)] has instituted the [http://www.uscis.gov/portal/site/uscis/menuitem.eb1d4c2a3e5b9ac89243c6a7543f6d1a/?vgnextchannel=d21f3711ca5ca110VgnVCM1000004718190aRCRD&vgnextoid=d21f3711ca5ca110VgnVCM1000004718190aRCRD Genealogy Program] for public access to all records from 1906 to 1956 created by this agency, formerly Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS). Review the [http://www.uscis.gov/portal/site/uscis/menuitem.5af9bb95919f35e66f614176543f6d1a/?vgnextoid=3e0c69a3a0331110VgnVCM1000000ecd190aRCRD&vgnextchannel=d21f3711ca5ca110VgnVCM1000004718190aRCRD Genealogy Frequently Asked Questions website] to expedite your order and ensure success for your request. | ||
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:Index Search--$20 (form [http://www.uscis.gov/portal/site/uscis/menuitem.5af9bb95919f35e66f614176543f6d1a/?vgnextoid=7cac15d8c1dbb110VgnVCM1000004718190aRCRD&vgnextchannel=db029c7755cb9010VgnVCM10000045f3d6a1RCRD G-1041])<br>Microfilm copies--$20 (form [http://www.uscis.gov/portal/site/uscis/menuitem.5af9bb95919f35e66f614176543f6d1a/?vgnextoid=882615d8c1dbb110VgnVCM1000004718190aRCRD&vgnextchannel=db029c7755cb9010VgnVCM10000045f3d6a1RCRD G-1041A])<br>Paper copies--$35 (form [http://www.uscis.gov/portal/site/uscis/menuitem.5af9bb95919f35e66f614176543f6d1a/?vgnextoid=882615d8c1dbb110VgnVCM1000004718190aRCRD&vgnextchannel=db029c7755cb9010VgnVCM10000045f3d6a1RCRD G-1041A])<br> | :Index Search--$20 (form [http://www.uscis.gov/portal/site/uscis/menuitem.5af9bb95919f35e66f614176543f6d1a/?vgnextoid=7cac15d8c1dbb110VgnVCM1000004718190aRCRD&vgnextchannel=db029c7755cb9010VgnVCM10000045f3d6a1RCRD G-1041])<br>Microfilm copies--$20 (form [http://www.uscis.gov/portal/site/uscis/menuitem.5af9bb95919f35e66f614176543f6d1a/?vgnextoid=882615d8c1dbb110VgnVCM1000004718190aRCRD&vgnextchannel=db029c7755cb9010VgnVCM10000045f3d6a1RCRD G-1041A])<br>Paper copies--$35 (form [http://www.uscis.gov/portal/site/uscis/menuitem.5af9bb95919f35e66f614176543f6d1a/?vgnextoid=882615d8c1dbb110VgnVCM1000004718190aRCRD&vgnextchannel=db029c7755cb9010VgnVCM10000045f3d6a1RCRD G-1041A])<br> | ||
Form G-639, the [http://www.uscis.gov/files/form/g-639.pdf FOIA form] is used to obtain naturalization records created after 1956. <br> | Form G-639, the [http://www.uscis.gov/files/form/g-639.pdf FOIA form] is used to obtain naturalization records created after 1956. <br> | ||
== Determining if your Ancestor Naturalized == | == Determining if your Ancestor Naturalized == | ||
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If your immigrant lived until after 1900, you should locate them on as many censuses as you can. | If your immigrant lived until after 1900, you should locate them on as many censuses as you can. | ||
<u>'''Census Records – 1900 to 1930'''</u><br> | <u>'''Census Records – 1900 to 1930'''</u><br> | ||
The 1900, 1910, 1920, and 1930 Censuses each ask the year an immigrant arrived to the United States. It also asks if the individual was naturalized or not. The codes for naturalization are as follows:<br> | The 1900, 1910, 1920, and 1930 Censuses each ask the year an immigrant arrived to the United States. It also asks if the individual was naturalized or not. The codes for naturalization are as follows:<br> | ||
:'''PA:''' The individual began the naturalized process and has submitted a declaration of intention. | :'''PA:''' The individual began the naturalized process and has submitted a declaration of intention. | ||
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:'''NR:''' The census taker did not report the citizenship information. | :'''NR:''' The census taker did not report the citizenship information. | ||
<u>'''1920 Census'''</u><br> | <u>'''1920 Census'''</u><br> | ||
The 1920 Census also asks the year the individual naturalized. The 1920 Census is the only year this question is asked. | The 1920 Census also asks the year the individual naturalized. The 1920 Census is the only year this question is asked. | ||
<u>'''Certificate of Naturalization or Certificate of Citizenship:'''</u><br> | <u>'''Certificate of Naturalization or Certificate of Citizenship:'''</u><br> | ||
It is helpful to know if your ancestor naturalized. Documents found in your family’s possession may indicate if your ancestor naturalized. One document you may find in your family's possession is a Certificate of Naturalization or Certificate of Citizenship. This document indicates that your ancestor completed the process, and was a naturalized citizen of the United States. The certificate also states the court where the petition was filed. This helps locate a copy of the petition, which can contain more information about the immigrant. <br>'''<u>Passport:</u>'''<br>If your ancestor had a United States passport, your ancestor completed the naturalization process and was a US Citizen. Passports were only given to U.S. citizens. They were and was not required for travel outside of the United States during times of war. Often newly naturalized citizens would obtain passports to keep them from being drafted in their native country's military. For more information about United States Passports, click [[United States Passports|here]].<br> | It is helpful to know if your ancestor naturalized. Documents found in your family’s possession may indicate if your ancestor naturalized. One document you may find in your family's possession is a Certificate of Naturalization or Certificate of Citizenship. This document indicates that your ancestor completed the process, and was a naturalized citizen of the United States. The certificate also states the court where the petition was filed. This helps locate a copy of the petition, which can contain more information about the immigrant. <br>'''<u>Passport:</u>'''<br>If your ancestor had a United States passport, your ancestor completed the naturalization process and was a US Citizen. Passports were only given to U.S. citizens. They were and was not required for travel outside of the United States during times of war. Often newly naturalized citizens would obtain passports to keep them from being drafted in their native country's military. For more information about United States Passports, click [[United States Passports|here]].<br> | ||
== Tips for Success<br> == | == Tips for Success<br> == | ||
For success in finding naturalization records and obtaining the information desired, remember that there are limitations in naturalization records, exceptions to the naturalization process and search strategies that should be used such as checking spelling variations.<br> | For success in finding naturalization records and obtaining the information desired, remember that there are limitations in naturalization records, exceptions to the naturalization process and search strategies that should be used such as checking spelling variations.<br> | ||
=== Limitations<br> === | === Limitations<br> === | ||
<u>'''Town of Origin'''</u> | <u>'''Town of Origin'''</u> | ||
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'''<u>Names of Parents</u>'''<span id="fck_dom_range_temp_1281456402678_512" /> | '''<u>Names of Parents</u>'''<span id="fck_dom_range_temp_1281456402678_512" /> | ||
A [http://www.uscis.gov/portal/site/uscis/menuitem.5af9bb95919f35e66f614176543f6d1a/?vgnextchannel=d21f3711ca5ca110VgnVCM1000004718190aRCRD&vgnextoid=8d6bfd262fa4b110VgnVCM1000004718190aRCRD Visa file], required from 1924 to 1944, is the only naturalization record to contain the immigrant’s parents' names. Copies of [http://www.uscis.gov/portal/site/uscis/menuitem.5af9bb95919f35e66f614176543f6d1a/?vgnextchannel=d21f3711ca5ca110VgnVCM1000004718190aRCRD&vgnextoid=8d6bfd262fa4b110VgnVCM1000004718190aRCRD visa files] can only be obtained from the [https://wiki.familysearch.org/en/United_States_Naturalization_and_Citizenship USCIS.]<br> | A [http://www.uscis.gov/portal/site/uscis/menuitem.5af9bb95919f35e66f614176543f6d1a/?vgnextchannel=d21f3711ca5ca110VgnVCM1000004718190aRCRD&vgnextoid=8d6bfd262fa4b110VgnVCM1000004718190aRCRD Visa file], required from 1924 to 1944, is the only naturalization record to contain the immigrant’s parents' names. Copies of [http://www.uscis.gov/portal/site/uscis/menuitem.5af9bb95919f35e66f614176543f6d1a/?vgnextchannel=d21f3711ca5ca110VgnVCM1000004718190aRCRD&vgnextoid=8d6bfd262fa4b110VgnVCM1000004718190aRCRD visa files] can only be obtained from the [https://wiki.familysearch.org/en/United_States_Naturalization_and_Citizenship USCIS.]<br> | ||
=== Exceptions to the Naturalization Process<br> === | === Exceptions to the Naturalization Process<br> === | ||
There are exceptions to the naturalization process that can determine whether you find a declaration of intention and a petition for your ancestor, or not. | There are exceptions to the naturalization process that can determine whether you find a declaration of intention and a petition for your ancestor, or not. | ||
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Beginning in 1824 until 1906, immigrants under the age of 21 (whose parents did not naturalize) could be naturalized without filing a declaration of intent after they reached the age of 21 and had met the residency requirements. The declaration was often submitted with the petition.<ref name="Newman">Newman, John J. ''American Naturalization Records 1790-1990.'' (Bountiful, UT: Heritage Quest, 1998).</ref> | Beginning in 1824 until 1906, immigrants under the age of 21 (whose parents did not naturalize) could be naturalized without filing a declaration of intent after they reached the age of 21 and had met the residency requirements. The declaration was often submitted with the petition.<ref name="Newman">Newman, John J. ''American Naturalization Records 1790-1990.'' (Bountiful, UT: Heritage Quest, 1998).</ref> | ||
==== Women<br> ==== | ==== Women<br> ==== | ||
In 1855, derivative citizenship (obtaining one's citizenship from another person) was also available for immigrant women marrying U.S citizens, or if their husbands obtained their citizenship during their marriage. The wife's proof that she was a U.S. citizen was her husband's certificate of citizenship (or certificate of naturalization) and her marriage certificate. | In 1855, derivative citizenship (obtaining one's citizenship from another person) was also available for immigrant women marrying U.S citizens, or if their husbands obtained their citizenship during their marriage. The wife's proof that she was a U.S. citizen was her husband's certificate of citizenship (or certificate of naturalization) and her marriage certificate. | ||
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In 1922, citizenship was no longer available to women through marriage. However, from 1907 to 1922, a woman could lose her U.S. citizenship if she married an alien, even if she was born in the United States. For more information, read Marion L. Smith's article, [http://www.archives.gov/publications/prologue/1998/summer/women-and-naturalization-1.html ''Women and Naturalization, ca. 1802-1940''.] | In 1922, citizenship was no longer available to women through marriage. However, from 1907 to 1922, a woman could lose her U.S. citizenship if she married an alien, even if she was born in the United States. For more information, read Marion L. Smith's article, [http://www.archives.gov/publications/prologue/1998/summer/women-and-naturalization-1.html ''Women and Naturalization, ca. 1802-1940''.] | ||
==== Military <br> ==== | ==== Military <br> ==== | ||
To serve in the United States military, one did not need to be a United States citizen - even today. The United States Government passed some naturalization laws to help encourage new immigrants to serve in the military in their new homeland. These laws made becoming a naturalized citizen easier for the immigrant in military service. The following are the laws concerning service in the military:<br> | To serve in the United States military, one did not need to be a United States citizen - even today. The United States Government passed some naturalization laws to help encourage new immigrants to serve in the military in their new homeland. These laws made becoming a naturalized citizen easier for the immigrant in military service. The following are the laws concerning service in the military:<br> | ||
'''''Army'''''--Beginning in 1862, the Declaration was waived, and the residency requirement was reduced to one year, for a soldier with an honorable discharge. <br>'''''Navy & Marines'''''--Beginning in 1894, with an honorable discharge, the Declaration was waived and the residency requirement was reduced to one year. <br>'''''World War I'''''--In 1918, during WWI, the residency requirement was waived and the Declaration was also waived. Soldiers were naturalized at military posts.<br> | '''''Army'''''--Beginning in 1862, the Declaration was waived, and the residency requirement was reduced to one year, for a soldier with an honorable discharge. <br>'''''Navy & Marines'''''--Beginning in 1894, with an honorable discharge, the Declaration was waived and the residency requirement was reduced to one year. <br>'''''World War I'''''--In 1918, during WWI, the residency requirement was waived and the Declaration was also waived. Soldiers were naturalized at military posts.<br> | ||
==== Collective Naturalization <ref name="Schaefer" /><ref name="Greenwood">Greenwood, Val D. ''The Researcher's Guide to American Genealogy'', 3rd ed. (Baltimore, MD: Genealogical Publishing Co., Inc., 2000)</ref> ==== | ==== Collective Naturalization <ref name="Schaefer" /><ref name="Greenwood">Greenwood, Val D. ''The Researcher's Guide to American Genealogy'', 3rd ed. (Baltimore, MD: Genealogical Publishing Co., Inc., 2000)</ref> ==== | ||
In some instances, entire groups have been collectively granted U.S. citizenship. Collective naturalization is defined as a group of people all receiving their citizenship through an act of congress or treaty. In these cases you will not find individual naturalization papers. <br> | In some instances, entire groups have been collectively granted U.S. citizenship. Collective naturalization is defined as a group of people all receiving their citizenship through an act of congress or treaty. In these cases you will not find individual naturalization papers. <br> | ||
In 1868, African-Americans were made citizens by the Fourteenth Amendment of the Unites States Constitution. In 1924, Native Americans were finally made citizens, although some chiefs of tribes became citizens before this date. The Native Americans were not included in the Fouteeneth Amendment because they were considered a seperate nation. | In 1868, African-Americans were made citizens by the Fourteenth Amendment of the Unites States Constitution. In 1924, Native Americans were finally made citizens, although some chiefs of tribes became citizens before this date. The Native Americans were not included in the Fouteeneth Amendment because they were considered a seperate nation. | ||
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=== Variant spellings === | === Variant spellings === | ||
Search all spellings of the surname. Think about how the surname was pronounced, and how it sounded in your ancestor's probable accent. The surname may be spelled differently in earlier records that were closer to your ancestor's immigration date.<br> | Search all spellings of the surname. Think about how the surname was pronounced, and how it sounded in your ancestor's probable accent. The surname may be spelled differently in earlier records that were closer to your ancestor's immigration date.<br> | ||
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== Other Naturalization Topics == | == Other Naturalization Topics == | ||
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== References == | == References == | ||
<references /> | <references /> | ||
{{Place|United States}} | {{Place|United States}} | ||