66-Year-Old Florida Man Discovers He’s Not a U.S. Citizen After 60 Years

Florida Man Discovers He’s Not a U.S. Citizen After 60 Years

Jimmy Klass, a 66-year-old man living in Clearwater, Florida, was left stunned after discovering he is not a U.S. citizen despite living in the country for over six decades. Klass, who moved to the U.S. from Canada in 1959, recently found out about his citizenship status when he applied for Social Security retirement benefits.

According to Klass, he received a letter stating that he had not proven his legal presence in the country, despite having lived, worked, paid taxes, and even voted in American elections for years. “I just was, like, blindsided,” Klass said about the revelation.

Despite having deep roots in America, including his father being an American citizen, Klass was denied citizenship after applying for it. He sought help from Senator Marco Rubio’s office and hired an immigration attorney and genealogist to prove his case, but the fight continues.

Immigration attorney Indera Demine explained that Klass’s case reflects the complexities of the U.S. immigration system, which may not accurately track individuals’ legal status over time. Klass’s situation raises questions about how he was able to obtain a Social Security card and other documents without proving his citizenship.

As Klass struggles to resolve his citizenship status and collect his retirement benefits, he has expressed disappointment in America and mentioned the possibility of moving back to Canada. His story serves as a reminder of the challenges individuals may face within the U.S. immigration system.

If you have a story idea or tips to share, contact Katie LaGrone.