Reasons Your Citizenship Application Was Denied
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The goal for many green card holders is to become U.S. citizens. However, becoming a U.S. citizen is not automatic after becoming a green card holder. Rather, those who seek U.S. citizenship must apply, and their applications may or may not be approved, depending on various eligibility factors. At Kriezelman Burton & Associates, we have experienced immigration attorneys who help clients in the Chicago area to successfully apply for citizenship.
Eligibility for U.S. Citizenship
To obtain U.S. citizenship, one must go through a naturalization process, which requires the applicant to first apply for citizenship by completing and filing Form N-400 with the United States Citizenship and Immigration (USCIS).
Before submitting the application, the applicant must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Must be at least 18 years old at the time of submitting the application
- Must have been a green card holder for the past three or five years, depending under which category they are applying for citizenship
- Must have continuous physical presence and residence in the United States
- Must be able to write, read and speak basic English
- Must show good moral character
- Must show a knowledge and understanding of basic U.S. history and government
- Must show loyalty to the U.S. Constitution and
- Must be willing to take the Oath of Allegiance.
Being eligible to apply for U.S. citizenship is, however, only part of the naturalization process. Once the application is submitted, a USCIS examiner must determine that the applicant is not disqualified from being a U.S. citizen on other grounds or reasons provided under the law. There are many reasons that an application for U.S. citizenship may be denied, but the main ones are as follows:
Failing to Meet Financial Obligations
If the applicant has been ordered to pay child support but has failed to do so, then this will be a good reason for their application to be denied.
This can also be the outcome if the applicant has failed to pay taxes or is behind in paying their taxes. This is by far the most common reason many applicants are denied citizenship, but it need not be fatal. If you owe taxes, then you should contact the IRS and arrange to pay the taxes. The IRS will usually agree to a payment plan to pay the overdue taxes.
Fraud on the Application
If there is evidence of fraud or if the USCIS examiner handling the file suspects fraud, an application for citizenship can be denied on that basis alone. Fraud is usually established if the applicant provides information on their application or says things at their interview that are inconsistent or contradicted by other documents.
USCIS will usually provide an opportunity for the applicant to overcome the fraud finding, and in some cases, an applicant is able to do just that, usually with the help of an experienced naturalization lawyer.
Reach Out to a Chicago Citizenship Attorney
If you are interested in applying for citizenship, contact our office today for a consultation to determine your eligibility and to guide you on how you can address issues or problems that may result in denial of your application.
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Highly recommend attorney Kevin Raica and attorney Agata Bigdanowicz. They were super helpful, responded on time, and won my case in record time. It took about a month and half in total for me to get my approval after filing!
Brittni Rivera and her team (Carina Lopez) are fantastic! They are responsive, efficient and beyond compassionate. Brittni Rivera and her team treated me with dignity and respect as they patiently answered all of my questions. They didn't move on without making sure I understood each step. Their work ethic was impressive. It felt like they were an extension of my personal team. I can't say enough to convey my gratitude…
I give my total recommendation and trust in this great organization that has supported me and my family in very difficult times, especially the lawyer Andrea Ochoa and her paralegal Rafael who were little angels that God has sent us to be able to face all the obstacles that we have had along the way. Thank you very much with all my heart. ❤️
I have heard from several people that Brittni is a great attorney. When my friend was detained, I recommended Brittni to take his case. She did an amazing job putting together all the necessary information, especially given that we had only a couple of days to submit the habeas corpus application. She and her team worked very professionally and provided clear guidance throughout. She stayed in touch consistently and was…
Highly recommend Jennifer Peyton in federal litigations. She’s very polite and experienced.
I decided to use the services of Kriezelman Burton & Associates, LLC, and Kevin was nothing short of professional and amazing. From the consultation to the final approval, he gave us confidence and reassurance throughout the entire process. When I first told him about my wife’s wish to change her status, the first thing he said was, “We will get it done.” Even during the USCIS pause, he continued to…
Great service and attention. Felt safe and confident since the first meeting. Couldn't be happier with the results and services. I had the pleasure of working with attorney Andrea Ochoa and it was a great experience would absolutely reccomend her services
Our experience with the firm was extraordinary. We worked with attorney Andrea Ochoa. Since the very first meeting we met, Andrea gave us all the confidence to proceed with our case. She always answered our questions shortly and offered clear guidelines to proceed. When my son's case received a notice of intent to deny, she planned how to fight that decision effectively. We totally recommend everyone to trust their case…
I just want to say huge thank you to Mr. Kevin A. Raica. for everything he has done for me throughout my immigration case. When I first came to Kevin, he explained the SIJS process clearly and walked me through the steps. We first needed to get the guardianship court order before moving forward with the I-360, and he connected me with a trusted attorney to help with that part.…
I cannot find the words to express my gratitude to Brittni Rivera! She literally saved my family. We had been waiting seven years for what she accomplished in just three weeks. I was impressed by how accessible the office is—they always answer calls very quickly. A special thank you to paralegal Nataliia Melnyk. You are my heroes. Thank you.
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