The USCIS receives thousands of applications for naturalization every day. Aspiring to become an American citizen is in high demand! Many applicants are surprised to find out that their application was denied.
The USCIS could reject your citizenship application for various reasons. Before you start the long and costly naturalization process, let’s look at some of the top reasons that may hinder your N-400 application process.
#1. Due to Criminal Records
The first and foremost reason that your N-400 form may be rejected is due to a criminal record against you.
The USCIS officer reviews the history of each applicant, ranging from green card-related issues to arrests and citations.
If a person is found guilty in any of these cases, their application form gets rejected automatically. Any crime committed by someone trying to become a citizen is grounds for an immediate hearing with the immigration court for deportation.
#2. Failing the English and/or Civics Test
Part of the naturalization process involves passing the English and Civics test.
The English test is made up of three sections: speaking/understanding, reading, and writing.
In the Civics test, you are asked ten questions about the history, geography and government of the USA. You must answer six questions correctly to pass.
If you do not pass either test, you will not be approved for U.S. citizenship that day.
#3. Improper completion of the N-400 Form
Becoming a U.S. citizen can feel like a daunting and intimidating process.
Being 100% accurate and paying heightened attention to detail is essential when filling out the N-400 form. If it feels too overwhelming, it can give you peace of mind to hire professional help.
It’s surprising but true that a small mistake in your N-400 application form could result in the rejection of your U.S. citizenship. When applicants forget to fill in the complete details or fill in incorrect information, these careless actions may result in rejection or delay the acceptance of the N-400 form.
Also, if you are a male between 18 and 26, you need to register for selective service, failing which your applications will be rejected. After that, you could only refile again after the age of 31.
#4. Due to a Fraudulent Green Card
The officer will verify your green card and will check its issue date.
If they discover any fraud related to your green card, your application form will automatically be rejected.
In the worst-case scenario, you could be summoned to appear in court for deportation proceedings.
#5. Improper Behavior in the Interview
The USCIS officer will observe how you conduct yourself at the interview.
Even nervousness can reflect poorly on your character.
Suppose you provide false information in your application form or unintentionally give any wrong or questionable reply. In that case, there is a high risk that your form will be rejected.
#6. Lack of Moral Values
The interview is a formal process; everything from your attire, responses, tone and behavior should respect that standard.
The USCIS officer carefully reviews all your documents and history. Any information found suspicious may reflect on your moral character, which could delay your citizenship process.
#7. Fraud in Taxes
Applicants must be sure that no outstanding taxes are pending against them. Even a small pending amount could result in the rejection of your N-400 application form.
So, you need to have all your taxes paid to date.
#8. Divorce
Divorce could also be a significant reason for rejecting your N-400 application form.
The people applying under the three-year rule must ensure that they remain married to the same U.S. citizen who sponsored them for permanent citizenship for three years. If they fail to prove so, then their application will be denied.
#9. Not Paying Child Support
Besides timely tax filing, the citizenship applicant must ensure appropriate child support.
If the applicant has a minor child or children that do not live with them, they need to provide full financial support, failing which can result in the denial of the application.
#10. Missed Opportunities and Deadlines
Last but not least, if a candidate fails to meet the deadlines of the citizenship process, then their application process could be delayed for a long time or could even be rejected.
If you apply by yourself, you will be notified of every phase of your citizenship process. Any missed appointments or deadlines can cost you considerably over your N-400 application.
Conclusion
Becoming a U.S. citizen is not necessarily difficult. However, it requires a lot of diligence.
A small mistake in your application form or inappropriate behavior during the interview could result in your application being delayed or, worse, denied.
Therefore, it is essential to understand the application process and utilize expert guidance to complete your citizenship process successfully.
Let us help you fulfil your dream of becoming an American citizen! We are the Number One Free Online Training for the U.S. Citizenship Test. 🥇
Our online training program offers extensive practice test questions and test simulations, including all components of the English and Civics tests, to help prepare you for the interview.
➜ Start preparing with us now for your U.S. Citizenship Naturalization Test!


Leave a Reply