Have you ever wondered what happens if your naturalization application is approved? The difference between approval and denial of your naturalization application will have ramifications on when – or whether – you become a citizen. The process may seem straightforward, but there are important steps you need to take. This article explores:
- What happens if you are approved for naturalization,
- The significance of the oath, and
- Whether you can reapply for naturalization if denied.
What Happens If My Application For Naturalization Is Approved?
Once your application for naturalization is approved, you must take the oath to become a U.S. citizen. In fact, despite fulfilling all other requirements, you technically only become a citizen once this happens. There are rare exceptions to this, however.
The oath ceremony is typically done on the same day as the interview and test. After passing the exam, you proceed to the ceremony, take the oath, receive your certificate of naturalization, and become a U.S. citizen.
However, there may be instances where the ceremony cannot be done on the same day, such as if the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) office is closing or if they have scheduled you for another day. In some cases, people never receive their oath ceremony, even though they passed the exam and test. We once had a client who waited ten years for their oath ceremony.
Why Might My Application For Naturalization Be Denied By The USCIS?
Approval and denial of naturalization applications hinge on several criteria. Common reasons for denial include:
- Failing to respond to a request for evidence from the USCIS.
The USCIS often requests these when applicants do not initially include all required information. The USCIS may even consider your case abandoned if you do not respond to its request for evidence.
- Being deemed to have poor moral character.
Having a criminal history or not completing a probation period can be grounds for which the USCIS determines you to have poor moral character and subsequently deny your application. In such cases, it may be best to wait until your probation period is over and demonstrate you have rehabilitated yourself before applying. In addition, not paying child support or taxes can also be considered a lack of good moral character and result in denial.
- Failing the naturalization test.
You will more than likely be allowed to retake the test, however.
- Staying outside the United States for longer than permitted.
An interruption to your continuous presence in the United States puts your application for naturalization at risk.
Can I Reapply For Naturalization?
It is possible to reapply for naturalization if your previous application was denied. Many of the clients we have assisted over the years reapplied after failing the naturalization exam or not submitting the required documents.
It is critical to reapply strategically when eligible, however. If, for instance, you were charged with a crime and have not completed your probation, it would not be wise to immediately reapply, as you will more than likely be denied once again.
For more information on the Approval & Denial Of Naturalization Application, an initial consultation is your next best step. Get the information and legal answers you are seeking by calling (310) 341-0551 today.
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