As an American citizen, I am acutely aware of the privileges and rights that come with holding the 'blue passport.' Yet, there's an aspect of American citizenship that is distinctly problematic - the apparent lack of ability for a citizen to sell their citizenship back to the U.S. government if they choose to pursue citizenship elsewhere. It's a policy change I am advocating for through this petition.

This issue became glaringly apparent when considering the current EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program. It's a path to citizenship where foreigners are granted a "gold card" or US citizenship upon investing a minimum of $5,000,000 in a commercial venture that creates or preserves ten jobs for US workers (USCIS, 2020). This essentially equates American citizenship to a $5m price tag for foreign investors - so why should natural-born or naturalized Americans not have the same opportunity?

Under the current law, American citizens wishing to renounce their citizenship must simply pay a fee of $2,350, but are not provided any compensation or distinction for their years of societal contribution (US Department of State, 2021). This can feel markedly unfair when juxtaposed with the EB-5 program.

Swift action is needed to review this policy and establish an equal ground between those who can purchase citizenship and existing citizens who wish to relinquish theirs. It is only fair that if one can buy into the American Dream, others should be able to cash out on their investment.

Please show your support by signing this petition and make a difference in establishing fair laws around US citizenship.