What determines citizenship in the United States?

Citizenship in the United States is determined by multiple factors, primarily encompassing birthright citizenship, parentage, and the process of naturalization. Under the principle of jus soli, or "right of the soil," individuals born on U.S. soil automatically acquire citizenship, regardless of their parents' citizenship status. This is reinforced by the 14th Amendment of the Constitution, which states that all persons born or naturalized in the United States are citizens.

In addition, citizenship can also be acquired through jus sanguinis, or "right of blood," where a person may inherit citizenship from their parents, even if they are born outside the U.S. Furthermore, naturalization provides a pathway for foreign nationals to become U.S. citizens after fulfilling specific criteria, such as prolonged residency, good moral character, proficiency in English, and knowledge of U.S. government and history.

This multifaceted approach underscores that citizenship is not solely dependent on just one aspect—birth in the U.S., naturalization, or residency—but rather a combination of these factors. This comprehensive understanding of citizenship captures the diversity of circumstances under which individuals can become citizens of the United States.