A Guide to Successfully Navigating the U.S. Naturalization Process
Applying for U.S. citizenship through Form N-400, Application for Naturalization is an exciting yet meticulous process. While many applicants successfully become U.S. citizens, some face denials due to common mistakes. Understanding the top reasons for N-400 denials can help applicants avoid pitfalls and improve their chances of approval.
In this blog, we’ll cover why Form N-400 gets denied and what you can do to prevent it.
1. Failing to Meet Continuous Residence and Physical Presence Requirements
U.S. citizenship applicants must prove that they have
- Lived in the U.S. as a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) for at least 5 years (or 3 years for those married to a U.S. citizen).
- Spent at least 30 months physically present in the U.S. within the last 5 years (or 18 months within the last 3 years for certain applicants).
- Not had long absences (over 6 months at a time), which can break continuous residence.
To make sure their applications don’t get denied for not meeting the residency requirements, they must keep travel records and ensure that long trips outside the U.S. don’t break their residency requirements. If they had stayed abroad for more than six months, they will need to show evidence that they maintained U.S. ties (e.g., kept a job, filed U.S. taxes, maintained a home).
2. Failing the English and Civics Test
U.S. Citizenship applicants must pass a spoken English test, a reading and writing test, and a civics test covering U.S. history and government. If they fail in these tests twice, their application will be denied.
To pass this test and to avoid denial of their applications they must
- Prepare for the Naturalization Exam by using USCIS study guides and taking practice tests.
- Consider enrolling in an ESL (English as a Second Language) or citizenship preparation classes.
- If they qualify for an exemption due to age or disability, they must submit the proper medical certification (Form N-648).
3. Not Demonstrating Good Moral Character
USCIS evaluates whether an applicant has maintained good moral character (GMC) for at least 5 years before applying (or 3 years for certain applicants).
Common reasons for failing GMC checks are as follows.
- Criminal offenses (DUIs, drug-related charges, fraud, domestic violence, etc.).
- Failure to pay taxes or misrepresenting income.
- Failure to pay child support.
- Lying on immigration applications or providing false information.
To successfully get through the GMC checks, it is crucial for the applicants to be honest in their application and they must never hide past arrests or offenses. If they owe taxes, they will need to ensure that they pay any outstanding taxes or set up a repayment plan before applying. It is also crucial to maintain proof of compliance with child support obligations.
4. Errors or Omissions on Form N-400
Incomplete N-400 forms will be rejected by the USCIS. To make sure citizenship applications are not rejected, it is mandatory to fill out the form completely and accurately and ensure it is signed. Likewise, they need to make sure they are paying the right fees.
Before submitting an application with the USCIS, applicants must double-check the entire application. They will need to use black ink, follow instructions, and attach the required supporting documents. Similarly, they must check the USCIS website for the updated fees and pay the correct filing fees to avoid rejections.
5. Failing to Register for the Selective Service (For Male Applicants)
Males between the ages 18-26 must register for Selective Service to be eligible for U.S. citizenship. USCIS may question their eligibility if they fail to register.
Males under 26, must register for selective service at www.sss.gov. Applicants over 26 who have not registered, will need to provide a written explanation detailing why they haven’t registered and include supporting evidence.
6. Having an Outstanding Deportation Order or Unresolved Immigration Issues
USCIS will not accept N-400 applications filed by applicants who are in removal (deportation) proceedings. USCIS will also check for past immigration violations or misrepresentation.
Applicants who have past immigration issues must consult an immigration attorney before applying for U..S. citizenship. They must ensure their green cards are valid and all previous immigration paperwork is in order, to avoid denial.
7. Failing to Attend the Naturalization Interview
The Naturalization interview is one of the most important steps in the Naturalization process. USCIS requires all applicants to attend a naturalization interview. Missing the interview without rescheduling can result in denial.
To ensure their applications don’t get denied for missing the naturalization interview, applicants must keep track of their interview notice and prepare in advance. If they cannot attend the scheduled interview they must reschedule it through USCIS.
Final Thoughts: How to Improve Your Chances of Approval
While denials happen for various reasons, careful preparation can significantly increase chances of success. To avoid common mistakes, it is mandatory to stay informed about eligibility requirements. Before submitting the application, it is important to double-check all documents and information. Likewise, applicants must maintain good moral character and prepare for your English and civics tests. Those who have concerns with their cases can seek legal guidance to be on the safer side.
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