According to a recent survey, the number of immigrants in the United States who choose to become citizens is rising following a sharp decline at the start of the pandemic. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) welcomed more than 7.4 million naturalized citizens into the fabric of our nation in the last decade.
An analysis from the Pew Research Center found that over 900,000 U.S. immigrants became citizens of the U.S. in the 2022 fiscal year – an increase compared to their pre-pandemic average, according to the survey.
Meanwhile, naturalizations among immigrants from sub-Saharan Africa, Asia, Latin America, and North Africa have gone up by 15 to 26 percent more compared to pre-pandemic levels.
The naturalization rate among immigrants from China has plummeted, decreasing by 20 percent compared to pre-pandemic levels – the only exception to the upward trend in naturalizations.
This marks the highest rate of naturalization ever recorded in the United States, indicating that immigrants are increasingly feeling welcomed and at home in their new country. The United States is continuing its long history of welcoming and accepting immigrants from all walks of life, thus further enriching our nation’s already diverse culture.
These numbers demonstrate that U.S. citizenship continues to be highly valued around the world, despite the unprecedented challenges posed by the COVID pandemic and other social issues facing our nation today.
In conclusion, naturalization numbers in the United States are increasing to record highs, indicating that immigrants continue to be drawn to this nation because of its promise of a better life. With increased naturalization rates come increased opportunities for everyone in this great nation.