9 Apr 2018

American Samoan public divided over US citizenship process

11:34 am on 9 April 2018

Public opinion is divided among American Samoans on the US Congresswoman's proposed legislation to give locals a more affordable and streamlined process to US citizenship.

Incumbent Congresswoman Aumua Amata is seeking a second term.

Aumua Amata Photo: Supplied/United States Congress

People born in American Samoa are considered US Nationals under US federal law, and must meet stringent requirements if they want to become US citizens.

The territory's US congresswoman Aumua Amata has introduced a bill that seeks to waive the residency requirements and civics tests.

Our correspondent Fili Sagapolutele said many locals had called for the process to be simpler and easier and this bill also allows for an economic hardship waiver.

She said some are worried that it could open the door for children born there to foreigners to access citizenship more easily.

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