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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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Outstanding Immigration Attorney – Worth Every Penny I cannot recommend Justin highly enough as an immigration attorney. My case was extremely difficult and complex, and from the very beginning, Justin demonstrated an exceptional level of knowledge, professionalism, and dedication. He took the time to fully understand every detail of my situation and explained the entire legal process clearly and honestly, which gave me confidence during a very stressful time. While…
I highly recommend this law firm! They are always honest right from the initial consultation. They don't take cases just for the money. My family member was a victim of an ICE raid in Michigan on November 17th and returned home on December 30th. It could have been faster, but everything happened during the holidays (Thanksgiving and Christmas). Maya Flores was recommended by another lawyer, and the entire team has…
I just wanted to take a moment to thank you for all your help and professionalism throughout my green card and citizenship process. Your guidance has made everything much easier to understand, and I truly appreciate how patient, thorough, and responsive you’ve been with every question I had. I’m very grateful for your support and the quality of your work. I would gladly recommend your services to anyone who needs…
My experience with Kriezelman Burton & Associates was excellent. We worked with Jennifer Peyton, for removal proceedings due to being detained by ICE. Jennifer worked diligently and was responsive. Jennifer was supportive throughout the whole process and showed compassion. With the help of Jennifer and the help of the firm, we were able to get the removal proceedings stopped and received permanent residency. I am so thankful for Kriezelman Burton…
The Best human being to have your back when you really need it!!! Mr Burton's professionalism and sharpness saved my family....!!!!!
I cannot say enough amazing things about Kriezelman Burton & Associates and Attorney Jennifer Peyton. They are truly a godsend. Jennifer worked day and night on my brother’s case, and her dedication never wavered for a single moment. She consistently communicated with my sister-in-law and me, making sure we understood every step of the process and always keeping us informed. She built an incredibly structured and solid case for my…
I recently had the privilege of working with Attorney Brittni Rivera of Kriezelman, Burton & Associates on a habeas corpus case. From the very beginning, she demonstrated exceptional knowledge, integrity, and attention to detail. She was consistently responsive—always just an email away—and made me feel supported through every step of the process. Her guidance brought clarity during a very difficult time, and I am truly grateful for her dedication and…
So many immigration firms in Chicago who do you choose? I can tell you with certainty this is the place to go for you and your loved ones. My wife came over across the border under the Biden years. Our application was sent in, in May and by November we got approved for her 485. This law firm handles many cases of all different kinds so they just know what…
My God, if I could give 10 stars, I would. My family and I are so grateful, first and foremost to God and to attorney Brittni Rivera, who helped us free my husband. He was detained by ICE in Chicago and transferred to Michigan. The process after hiring attorney Brittni Rivera took only 15 days, when I was given about a month. It was incredibly fast and effective.
Our family is sincerely grateful to attorney Nicole M. Provax from Kriezelman Burton & Associates, LLC for her professionalism, dedication, and support, as she guided us through every step with care and understanding. Thanks to her guidance, our case reached a positive outcome. We truly appreciate everything she has done for our family and highly recommend her and the firm.
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