Grounds on Which U.S. Citizenship May be Denied by USCIS

Holding a Permanent Resident Card or Green Card doesn't necessarily gives assurance to obtain U.S. citizenship. Sometimes the green card holder may not be qualified for citizenship under the US Immigration laws for some reasons.


*English and Civics Tests

The knowledge on English language is mandatory to become a citizen of the United States. Poor knowledge of the English language can cause rejection of citizenship applications.

The citizenship interview and exam is conducted in English but there are some exception.

You may qualify for a  waiver if you:
-have been a Green card holder (lawful permanent resident) in the US for the past 20 years and you -are above 50 years of age.
-are 55 years old and you have been a lawful permanent resident in the US for 15 years.
-have a disability which disallows you from taking the test.
*conditions apply


*Good Moral Character

Criminal activity or records from the past might be a a ground of citizenship denial.

However, if the application was denied, it is still possible to re-apply after 5 years, considered as a developing proof of good moral character. Conditions apply on other cases.


In time that your citizenship application is denied, there is a way to appeal the decision by asking for a hearing with a USCIS immigration officer.