More
about Immigration Records: Paperwork, Paperwork, Paperwork!
As the
"open immigration policy" became increasingly unpopular
in the 18th century, the federal government passed the Alien Act (1798);
this was the first national attempt to regulate immigration. This
law allowed the President to deport any non-citizen who might be considered
dangerous to the United States for any reason. However, the law was
abused and some settlers were deported without just cause. The Alien
Act was replaced by new legislation in 1800. For a list of immigration
policies and laws, click on the Timeline.
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From
the National Archives of Records and Administration: Immigrants
arriving at Ellis Island ca, 1903
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How
did newcomers to America become citizens?
For nearly
200 years, immigrants were naturalized
- that is, became United States citizens - in any court of record.
Typically,
naturalization was a two-step process which took at least
five years to complete. After living in the United States for two
years, a prospective immigrant could file a "declaration of intent"
to become a citizen. After three additional years, he or she could
"petition for naturalization." Whenthe petition was granted, a certificate
of citizenship was issued by the court.
