A person is a citizen if born on U.S. soil.  All such persons will receive a birth certificate, which is proof of citizenship. U.S. soil encompasses all fifty states, the District of Columbia, and outlying U.S. commonwealths.

One is a citizen if born to one or more U.S. parents abroad under the following circumstances. If one is a citizen based on these circumstances, one may obtain a Certificate of Citizenship to prove U.S. citizenship.

1. Both parents were U.S. citizens when the person was born and at least one of the parents lived in the United States at some point in his/her life. The record of birth abroad, if registered with a U.S. consulate or embassy, is proof of citizenship. A person in this scenario may also apply for a passport to have his citizenship recognized. If a person needs additional proof of citizenship,he may file an "Application for Certificate of Citizenship" (form N-600) to get a Certificate of Citizenship. If the person was adopted, he would file a form N-643 to get a Certificate of Citizenship.
2. One parent was a U.S. citizen when the person was born and the citizen parent lived at least 5 years in the United States before he was born, 2 years of which were after the citizen parent attained the age of fourteen. The record of birth abroad, if registered with a U.S. consulate or embassy, is proof of citizenship. A person in this scenario may also apply for a passport to have his citizenship recognized. If a person needs additional proof of citizenship, he may file an "Application for Certificate of Citizenship" (Form N-600) to get a Certificate of Citizenship. If the person was adopted, he would file an N-643 to get a Certificate of Citizenship.

For more information on Citizenship, please click one of the links below:
Citizenship by Birth
Frequently Asked Questions about Citizenship