There has been a lot of attention on potential upcoming changes to domestic immigration policies. Every new administration and legislative session typically lead to minor changes to policies. In some cases, the proposed changes can have major implications for immigrants living in the United States and those aspiring to enter the country.
Many people worry about their documentation status or the rights of their loved ones. Those who have completed the naturalization process usually no longer have to worry about their status. They have the right to remain in the United States permanently. They can also help more of their family members lawfully enter the United States.
Unfortunately, some naturalized immigrants could be vulnerable to challenges against their immigration status. One of the big adjustments on the horizon for domestic immigration policy is increased attempts at denaturalization. Denaturalization effectively removes naturalized citizenship from those who have been in the country for years. Who could be at risk of denaturalization?
Fraudulent claims may lead to denaturalization
Becoming a naturalized citizen requires a lot of paperwork. Immigrants have to file petitions with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). They must pass a background check and complete a biometric appointment if they have not already done so. Naturalization also requires that immigrants attend a naturalization interview administered by the USCIS.
During that interview, they have to answer questions about themselves and their desire to naturalize. They typically also need to pass tests proving their proficiency in the English language and their understanding of the history and government of the United States.
In cases where the USCIS can reasonably claim that an immigrant fraudulently misrepresented their circumstances, the immigrant may be at risk of denaturalization. Those who lose their naturalized citizenship could then be at risk of removal from the United States.
Some people may have misrepresented their circumstances to naturalize. They may have claimed the identity of another person because they could not pass the criminal background check. They may have claimed to have legitimate romantic relationships when the whole purpose of their marriage was to gain entry into the United States.
Anyone facing scrutiny for naturalization, fraud or other immigration issues may need help responding and defending their status. Seeking legal guidance can help those affected by denaturalization efforts.
