What Are the Most Common Reasons a Naturalization Application is Denied?

The journey to U.S. citizenship is a significant milestone, representing years of hard work and dedication. However, the naturalization process is legally complex, and navigating the paperwork and interviews without guidance can leave room for errors that result in a denial. Whether it is a misunderstanding of eligibility requirements or a simple administrative oversight, receiving a rejection letter can be devastating. At Villarrubia & Rosenberger, P.C., our experienced immigration attorneys help you understand your options and turn a denial into a success story.

Common reasons for naturalization application denial include:

• Failure to meet the required residency or physical presence criteria.
• Issues with completing or submitting the application properly, such as missing documents or incomplete forms.
• Failure to pass the English language or civics test.
• USCIS errors.

Failing the English or Civics Test

One of the primary requirements for naturalization is demonstrating an ability to read, write, and speak basic English, as well as passing a civics test on U.S. history and government. For many applicants, nerves or a lack of preparation can lead to a failing score during the initial interview.

Fortunately, if you fail any portion of the English or civics test during your first interview, United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) typically schedules a second interview within 60 to 90 days. This gives you a second opportunity to pass the portion of the test you failed.

Extended Trips Outside the U.S.

Maintaining your status as a lawful permanent resident is crucial for citizenship eligibility. Many applicants face denials because they spent too much time outside the United States during the statutory period before applying.

USCIS looks at two specific requirements regarding your travel:

• Continuous Residence: You must maintain a permanent dwelling place in the U.S. Trips of more than six months but less than a year may disrupt this continuity unless you can prove you kept strong ties to the U.S. Absences of one year or more generally break continuous residence automatically.
• Physical Presence: You must have been physically present in the United States for at least 30 months out of the five years (or 18 months out of three years) immediately preceding the date of filing your application.

Forgetting to Include All Documents

The Form N-400 is comprehensive and requires substantial evidence to support your eligibility. A surprisingly common reason for denial or significant delays is simply failing to submit the necessary documentation. USCIS officers cannot approve an application if the file is incomplete.

To ensure your application moves smoothly through the system, you must typically provide:

• A copy of your Permanent Resident Card (Green Card).
• Marriage certificates and divorce decrees (if applicable) to prove your current marital status and the termination of prior marriages.
• Proof of Selective Service registration for certain male applicants.
• Certified tax returns or transcripts to demonstrate you have met your financial obligations.
• Court records for any arrests or citations, even if the charges were dropped.

USCIS Errors

While we expect government agencies to operate flawlessly, administrative errors do happen. USCIS processes millions of applications, and mistakes can occur. An officer might lose a document you submitted, miscalculate your time spent in the U.S., or misinterpret a point of law regarding your eligibility.

In these cases, a denial is particularly frustrating because the applicant did nothing wrong. Challenging a USCIS error often requires a legal argument citing specific regulations or evidence that was overlooked.

What to Do If Your Application Is Denied

Receiving a denial notice doesn’t mean your journey to citizenship is over. The notice will explain the specific reason for the decision, and you usually have the right to appeal.

Working with an experienced immigration attorney is critical at this stage. An attorney can review your denial letter to determine if the decision was legally sound or if it was based on an error. If you believe you are eligible, your lawyer can help you file Form N-336, “Request for a Hearing on a Decision in Naturalization Proceedings.”

During this hearing, your attorney can:

• Present new evidence to address the reasons for denial.
• Provide a legal brief arguing why the original decision was incorrect.
• Represent you before a different immigration officer to ensure your case is heard fairly.

If an appeal is not the right strategy, your attorney can advise you on when you will be eligible to file a new Form N-400.

Let Us Help You Secure Your Citizenship

A denial of your naturalization application is a setback, but it doesn’t have to be permanent. Whether you need to appeal a decision or prepare a stronger application for the future, professional legal guidance can make all the difference. The team at Villarrubia & Rosenberger, P.C., has the experience and compassion to guide you through the complexities of immigration law. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and get your journey to citizenship back on track.