Becoming a U.S. Citizen grants you specific rights that you would otherwise lack as a legal permanent resident. U.S. Citizenship grants you the right to apply for federal jobs, the right to live abroad for as long as you want, the right for certain family members to legally immigrate to the United States (such as parents and siblings, that you cannot petition for as a legal permanent resident), and, most importantly, the right to vote.

The U visa is available for victims of certain violent crimes who have suffered mental or physical abuse and are helpful to law enforcement or government officials in the investigation or prosecution of criminal activity.

The United States has been a place for people to find refuge from oppression and persecution in their home countries. People seeking refuge due to fear of persecution may apply for asylum in the United States.