What is meant by derivative citizenship?

Derivative citizenship refers to the concept where a child automatically acquires U.S. citizenship when their parent becomes a naturalized citizen. This process typically applies to children under a certain age and who are residing in the U.S. or meet specific residency requirements with their parents. The law recognizes the importance of family ties and ensures that children are not left without citizenship when their parent, who is a U.S. citizen, goes through the naturalization process.

In this context, other options do not accurately define derivative citizenship. While residency, marriage to a U.S. citizen, and employment can lead to citizenship in various ways, they do not pertain to the specific acquisition of citizenship through a parent's naturalization. Therefore, the correct choice effectively captures the essence of derivative citizenship as it relates directly to the relationship between parents and their children in the context of U.S. citizenship law.