In the latest Congressional report by the independent Congressional Research Service (CRS), it’s revealed that India has emerged as the second-largest source country for new United States citizens, with 65,960 Indians officially becoming US citizens in the fiscal year 2022. This places India just behind Mexico, which remains the leading source country for new American citizens.
According to data from the US Census Bureau’s American Community Survey, approximately 46 million foreign-born individuals were residing in the United States in 2022, constituting around 14 percent of the country’s total population of 333 million. Among this foreign-born population, approximately 53 percent, or 24.5 million individuals, reported their status as naturalized citizens.
The CRS report on “US Naturalization Policy” disclosed that in the fiscal year 2022, a total of 969,380 individuals obtained naturalized US citizenship. Mexico accounted for the largest number of naturalizations, followed by individuals from India, the Philippines, Cuba, and the Dominican Republic. Mexico saw 128,878 new US citizens, while the Philippines, Cuba, and the Dominican Republic had 53,413, 46,913, and 34,525 new citizens respectively.
In recent years, concerns have arisen regarding processing backlogs for naturalization applications at the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). However, the report highlighted significant progress in reducing these backlogs since fiscal year 2020. By the end of FY2023, USCIS had approximately 408,000 pending naturalization applications, marking a notable decrease from the 943,000 backlog recorded in FY2020.
What is Possible Reasons for the increase US Citizenship:
Large Indian Diaspora: The presence of a significant Indian immigrant community in the US establishes a supportive environment for new arrivals. This diaspora provides networks, resources, and cultural familiarity, which can ease the transition for those seeking citizenship.
Economic Opportunities: The US economy offers diverse job opportunities, higher wages, and career growth prospects compared to India. Many individuals may pursue citizenship as a means to secure their economic future, tapping into the stability and potential prosperity that the US offers.
Educational Opportunities: The renowned US education system attracts many Indian students and professionals. Access to quality education is often a driving factor for families considering citizenship, as it can facilitate educational opportunities for their children and ensure they have access to top-tier universities and resources.
Political Stability: The relative political stability of the US compared to some other countries can be a significant draw for those seeking a secure and predictable future. Stable governance, strong institutions, and democratic principles are attractive factors for individuals looking to build a life in a stable environment.
Why Choose Donivia Overseas for US Citizenship
At Donivia Overseas, we have a team of experienced professionals who specialize in US immigration procedures. We provide expert guidance and personalized assistance throughout every step of the citizenship process, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free journey. Our US Immigration Consultant in Delhi will always maintains transparent communication, keeping you informed about the progress of your application and any updates or developments that arise.