This was news to me, so I looked it up. When we adopted internationally in the ‘80s, our kids had to go through the naturalization process. Things did change in 2001 with the Child Citizenship Act. Thanks for the heads up.
Citizenship for adopted children
1. The Child Citizenship Act (CCA)
CCA became effective on February 27, 2001. The CCA represents a significant and important change in the U.S. immigration law. Under the new law, most foreign-born children adopted by U.S. citizens will automatically acquire U.S. citizenship on the date they immigrate to the United States.
2. Qualification of automatic citizenship of adopted children
Under the CCA, the adopted child will automatically acquire U.S. citizenship on the date that all of the following requirements are satisfied:
1. At least one adoptive parent is a U.S. citizen;
2. The child is under 18 years of age;
3. A full and final adoption of the child is completed; and
4. The child is in the U.S. as a permanent resident.
Individuals who are 18 years of age or older on February 27, 2001, do not qualify for citizenship under the CCA, even if they meet all other criteria. If they wish to become U.S. citizens, they must apply for naturalization and meet eligibility requirements that currently exist for adult lawful permanent residents.
The citizenship act is in force, but there were several years where certificate of citizenship was not issued. These take months and cost hundreds of dollars. Children adopted during early years of the act have difficulty proving citizenship.
Families adopting from Russia can be taking on a very very hard job.