H.R. 449: To amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to waive certain naturalization requirements for United States nationals, and for other purposes.

This bill proposes amendments to the Immigration and Nationality Act aimed at facilitating the naturalization process for United States nationals, particularly those serving in the military or residing in outlying possessions of the United States. Below are the key points of the proposed changes:

1. Waiver of Naturalization Requirements

The bill articulates specific findings that underscore the need to ease the naturalization process:

• U.S. citizens and U.S. nationals both owe allegiance to the United States.
• There is a significant representation of U.S. nationals in the Armed Services.
• Certain military positions necessitate U.S. citizenship.
• Many U.S. nationals express a desire to acquire U.S. citizenship.
• U.S. nationals are educated in U.S. Department of Education accredited institutions.
• The bill emphasizes that military personnel and civilian U.S. nationals should be granted citizenship quickly, without the need for relocation, additional educational testing, or payment of fees.

2. Amendments to Naturalization Eligibility

The bill modifies Section 325 of the Immigration and Nationality Act to allow U.S. nationals to become citizens more easily:

• Individuals not yet citizens but recognized as owing permanent allegiance can be naturalized if they meet certain conditions.
• Eligibility for naturalization would include individuals from outlying possessions who have continuously resided there since birth.
• It ensures that naturalization applications can be processed in U.S. outlying possessions.

3. Jurisdictional Provisions

The bill stipulates that relevant applications and proceedings for naturalization should be accessible in U.S. outlying possessions, serving specific groups such as:

• Applicants naturalizing under the new provisions.
• Residents of outlying possessions applying for naturalization under different sections of the law.
• Children of U.S. nationals seeking citizenship.

4. Conditions Affecting Naturalization

In evaluating eligibility for naturalization from the outlying possessions, the bill sets forth certain proofs and conditions:

• A prolonged absence (beyond 180 days) will interrupt the continuity of residence unless proof of non-abandonment is provided.
• The Secretary of Homeland Security may waive the requirement for a personal interview for the applicant.
• The Secretary may reduce fees associated with the naturalization process, reflecting the cost of processing the applications from these specific individuals.

5. Provisions for Children of U.S. Nationals

The bill also makes changes regarding children of U.S. nationals:

• A child qualifies for certain provisions if they are lawfully admitted to the U.S. or reside in an outlying possession.

Conclusion about the Bill

The intent of this bill is to create a more accessible pathway to U.S. citizenship for U.S. nationals, particularly those who have served in the military or live in U.S. territories, by waiving certain naturalization requirements previously mandated.

Relevant Companies

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