For most permanent residents (green card holders) in the U.S., becoming a U.S. citizen is a significant achievement and for many, it is a dream. But the application process is not as easy as many think and it can feel overwhelming. Some people tend to make mistakes in the citizenship process that could lead to serious consequences. To help you navigate this journey, we have compiled the five common mistakes to avoid when applying for citizenship:
1. Not Checking Your Eligibility First
Meeting all the citizenship eligibility requirements is mandatory and you will need to make sure you meet the requirements like the following, before you start the application process.
- Continuous residence: You need to have lived in the U.S. as a lawful permanent resident for at least 5 years (or 3 years if you’re married to a U.S. citizen).
- Physical presence: You must have spent at least 30 months in the U.S. during those 5 years (or 18 months during the 3 years if married to a citizen).
- Good moral character: Some criminal offenses or issues like failing to pay taxes can disqualify you.
Make sure you check all the boxes before applying to avoid unnecessary setbacks.
2. Submitting Incomplete or Incorrect Forms
It is crucial to complete Form N-400, the Application for Naturalization accurately. Errors on this form can lead to delays or denials. Some of the common mistakes include
- Misspelled names or incorrect dates.
- Forgetting to sign the form.
- Leaving sections blank.
Make sure you double-check all your details and attach all the required supporting documents. If you’re unsure, you can consider having an immigration expert review your N-400 application before you submit it.
3. Missing Important Deadlines
The naturalization process has strict deadlines, and missing them can cause headaches. Whether it’s filing your application, attending interviews, or responding to requests for more information, it’s crucial to stay on top of everything.
Use a calendar to track important dates and make sure to respond to any notices from USCIS promptly. We recommend setting reminders as it can really help keep everything organized.
4. Not Preparing for the Citizenship Test
One of the most important aspects of the U.S. citizenship process is the Citizenship Test, which includes a civics test and an English language test. Failing either can put a halt to your citizenship application.
The civics test covers U.S. history and government, while the English test assesses your reading, writing, and speaking skills. Be sure to review the study materials from USCIS, practice with sample questions, and work on your English if needed.
5. Being Dishonest
You need to be completely honest on your application and during your naturalization interview. Even if you think certain details might hurt your case, it’s essential to be transparent.
USCIS conducts thorough background checks, so they will verify the information you provide. If you fail to disclose things like past arrests or immigration violations, it could lead to denial or, in some cases, removal proceedings.
Final Word
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can make your path to U.S. citizenship smoother. Always check your eligibility, fill out your application carefully, keep track of deadlines, prepare for your tests, and be honest throughout the process. This way, you’ll have a better chance of successfully becoming a U.S. citizen without unnecessary hurdles.
If you need help with your citizenship application, services like Imagility can guide you through the process, making sure you meet all requirements and avoid costly errors. Good luck on your journey to citizenship!
