No, Marshallese are not US citizens. The Republic of the Marshall Islands is a sovereign nation with its own citizenship.
While the United States has a Compact of Free Association with the Marshall Islands, this agreement grants Marshallese citizens certain privileges, including the right to live and work in the US. However, it does not automatically confer US citizenship.
What is the Compact of Free Association?
The Compact of Free Association is a unique agreement between the US and several Pacific Island nations, including the Marshall Islands. It provides these nations with financial assistance and allows their citizens to live and work in the US without a visa.
How can Marshallese become US citizens?
Marshallese can become US citizens through various pathways, such as:
- Naturalization: This process requires meeting specific requirements, including residing in the US for a certain period, passing English and civics tests, and demonstrating good moral character.
- Birthright Citizenship: Children born in the US to non-citizen parents may be eligible for US citizenship.
- Marriage to a US Citizen: Spouses of US citizens may be eligible for citizenship through a process called "naturalization through marriage."
Examples of Marshallese who have become US citizens:
- Many Marshallese have become US citizens through naturalization. This process requires meeting specific requirements, including residing in the US for a certain period, passing English and civics tests, and demonstrating good moral character.
- Some Marshallese have become US citizens through birthright citizenship. This applies to children born in the US to non-citizen parents.
- Others have become US citizens through marriage to a US citizen. Spouses of US citizens may be eligible for citizenship through a process called "naturalization through marriage."
