To prove U.S. citizenship, one can present various official documents that serve as evidence. The most common and primary documents include:
- A U.S. Passport (currently valid or expired)
- A certified U.S. birth certificate showing the place of birth in the U.S. and including parental names and official registration details
- Certificate of Naturalization (for naturalized citizens)
- Certificate of U.S. Citizenship (for those who derive citizenship through parents)
- Consular Report of Birth Abroad or other certification of birth issued by the U.S. Department of State for those born abroad to U.S. citizen parents
- Documented membership or affiliation with a federally recognized American Indian or Alaska Native tribe
If primary documents are not available, secondary evidence can be accepted such as baptismal certificates, censuses, school records, hospital birth records, or affidavits accompanied by other secondary documents. Military ID cards or Social Security numbers alone do not prove citizenship. All documents must be original and officially certified where applicable. This documentation is generally required for official purposes such as applying for a passport, driver's license, or other government benefits or verifications.
