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Automatic U.S. Citizenship for Certain International Adoptees.

This law grants automatic U.S. citizenship to individuals internationally adopted by U.S. citizens who failed to acquire citizenship as children due to previous legal gaps. It applies retroactively to adults who met the adoption requirements before turning 18, resolving their long-standing immigration status issues. These individuals will gain full citizenship rights, whether they currently reside inside or outside the U.S.
Key points
Grants automatic citizenship to individuals adopted by U.S. citizens before age 18 who never previously obtained it.
Applies to adoptees currently residing both inside and outside the U.S. (those abroad gain citizenship upon lawful entry).
Adoptees residing abroad must pass a criminal background check before being issued a visa for entry to ensure public safety.
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Expired
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Additional Information
Print number: 118_HR_8617
Sponsor: Rep. Smith, Adam [D-WA-9]
Process start date: 2024-06-04
Lustra uses Artificial Intelligence. Verify details in source documents.
Summarized by: gemini-2.5-flash-preview-09-2025
Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Adoptee Citizenship Act of 2024

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 118_HR_8617.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the House of Representatives.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2024-06-04.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Grants automatic citizenship to individuals adopted by U.S. citizens before age 18 who never previously obtained it.
  • Applies to adoptees currently residing both inside and outside the U.S. (those abroad gain citizenship upon lawful entry).
  • Adoptees residing abroad must pass a criminal background check before being issued a visa for entry to ensure public safety.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Rep. Smith, Adam [D-WA-9].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-25.

CATEGORIES

Migration Family