Is bad bunny an american citizen: clarifying the musician’s official status
Bad Bunny, born Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio on March 10, 1994, in San Juan, Puerto Rico, is not an American citizen by birth. Puerto Rico is an unincorporated territory of the United States, meaning its residents are U.S. citizens by birthright under the Jones-Shafroth Act of 1917. However, Puerto Ricans cannot vote in U.S. presidential elections unless they reside in one of the 50 states or the District of Columbia. Bad Bunny has consistently identified as Puerto Rican and has not publicly pursued U.S. citizenship through naturalization, as his status as a U.S. citizen is already established by virtue of his birthplace.
The musician has maintained strong ties to Puerto Rico throughout his career, often incorporating its culture and language into his music. His 2020 album YHLQMDLG (Yo Hago Lo Que Me Da La Gana) and his 2022 album Un Verano Sin Ti prominently feature themes of Puerto Rican identity. Despite his global success, including collaborations with artists like J Balvin and Cardi B, Bad Bunny has not expressed any intention to change his citizenship status. His legal standing as a U.S. citizen allows him to travel and work freely in the United States, which has been instrumental in his rise to international fame.
Understanding Bad Bunny’s Citizenship Status
- Is Bad Bunny a U.S. citizen? Yes, Bad Bunny is a U.S. citizen by birthright, as he was born in Puerto Rico, a U.S. territory.
- Can Bad Bunny vote in U.S. presidential elections? Only if he establishes residency in one of the 50 states or the District of Columbia, as Puerto Ricans cannot vote in presidential elections while residing on the island.
- Has Bad Bunny ever applied for naturalization as a U.S. citizen? No, Bad Bunny has not applied for naturalization because he is already a U.S. citizen by birth.
