25 teens sworn in as U.S. citizens in Palo Alto

PALO ALTO, Calif. (KGO) -- Friday was a big day for some Bay Area teenagers. 25 teenagers, as well as a few adults, took the oath of allegiance and received their citizenship certificates today in Palo Alto.

For many of the kids, the ceremony was just a formality, but special nonetheless.

"Because their parents have done all the work, if they are under 18 at the time their parents naturalized, then the child obtains US citizenship at the same time," said Roland Lyons, the District Director.

Recipients at this ceremony come from 11 different countries, including India, Iraq, South Korea, and the United Kingdom.

Effective immediately, they'll have U.S. passports and will be able to vote when they're 18.