What Is An Acceptable Proof of Citizenship?
Several forms of documentation are considered "primary evidence of U.S. citizenship" by the U.S. Department of State. Acceptable proof of citizenship is required when applying for official documents such as passports and licenses.
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Purpose
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Certain official documents, such as passports, can be granted only to legal citizens. The Department of State requires proof of citizenship to ensure that all applicants are legal and eligible.
Primary Evidence of Citizenship
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Primary evidence of citizenship can be any of several preferred forms of documentation proving citizenship. These include a previously issued U.S. passport, a certified birth certificate, a consular report of birth abroad, a naturalization certificate or a certificate of citizenship.
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Secondary Evidence of Citizenship
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If primary proof of citizenship cannot be provided for some reason, early public records can be used as a secondary option. Acceptable records include a baptismal certificate, a hospital birth certificate, a census record, an early school record or a doctor's record of post-natal care.
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