First Steps as a U.S. Citizen: Part III

Protecting Your Right to Work

Federal law states that employers cannot discriminate against you because of your citizenship or immigration status or national origin. Employers cannot treat you differently because of your citizenship or because of your place of birth, native language, accent, or appearance. Employers may not demand more or different documents than necessary when completing Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification, or treat you differently when using E-Verify based on your citizenship or immigration status or national origin. Employers cannot retaliate against you if you complain about the treatment above.

Replacing Your Certificate of Naturalization

If you lose your Form N-550, Certificate of Naturalization, you may submit Form N-565, Application for Replacement Naturalization/ Citizenship Document, to USCIS. Follow the instructions on Form N-565 to determine where to submit this application and the current filing fee. You may request Form N-565 by calling the USCIS Forms Line (1-800-870-3676) or by downloading the form at www.uscis.gov/forms. You may use your U.S. passport as evidence of citizenship until you receive your replacement certificate.

First Steps as a U.S. Citizen: Part II

Obtain a Certificate of Citizenship for Your Child

If you have a child who is a lawful permanent resident under the age of 18 on the day you naturalize, he or she may have automatically acquired U.S. citizenship. To obtain evidence of your child’s acquired U.S. citizenship status, you may apply for a U.S. passport from the U.S. Department of State or for a Certificate of Citizenship using Form N-600, Application for Certificate of Citizenship, from USCIS.

Sponsor Family Members to Come to the United States

As a citizen of the United States, you may petition for certain relatives to become lawful permanent

residents by obtaining what is often referred to as a “Green Card.” To do so, you need to sponsor your

relative and be able to prove that you have enough income or assets to support your relative(s) in the

United States.