ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Accidental American

An Accidental American is someone who, without meaning to or without even knowing it, is considered to be a US citizen. This usually happens if they have a US parent, or if they were born in the US or one of its territories. Even if a person lives in another country their entire life, they may still be an Accidental American. Luckily, there is a way to get help resolving this situation and it doesn't involve a lot of paperwork or hard work. All an Accidental American needs to do is contact a tax specialist or seek guidance from the US embassy in the country they live in, and they will be able to get the help they need!