Comprehensive Overview of Immigration Law (COIL) Practice Exam

Which pathway is NOT a common route to U.S. citizenship?

1. Naturalization

2. Birthright citizenship

3. Investment-based acquisition

4. Marriage to a citizen

The correct answer is: Investment-based acquisition

Investment-based acquisition is not a common route to U.S. citizenship. While there are processes, such as the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program, that allow individuals to obtain a green card through investments, this route does not directly lead to citizenship. Instead, individuals must first obtain lawful permanent resident status and then typically must reside in the U.S. for a certain number of years before they can apply for naturalization. In contrast, naturalization, which is the most prevalent route, allows permanent residents to become citizens after meeting residency, language, and civics requirements. Birthright citizenship, guaranteed by the 14th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, automatically grants citizenship to individuals born on U.S. soil. Marriage to a U.S. citizen also provides a pathway to citizenship, as spouses can apply for green cards and later naturalize based on their marital relationship.