Will a Citizenship Application Denial Revoke Your Green Card?

 Posted on February 21, 2024 in Immigration

One of the most exciting times for immigrants is submitting their citizenship application. Unfortunately, there are situations where a person’s application gets denied. If this happens, the individual may worry that this will also mean their Green Card will be canceled. However, it is essential to understand that obtaining permanent residency and obtaining citizenship are two distinct processes, having their own requirements, procedures, and eligibility criteria. If your citizenship application has been denied, it is critical to contact an Illinois immigration lawyer for legal assistance.

What Are the Differences Between Permanent Residency and Citizenship?

When someone is granted permanent residency, they are given a Green Card. This card gives you the right to live and work permanently in the United States. There are several ways you can obtain a Green Card, including:

• Family sponsorship
• Employment sponsorship
• Asylum status
• Refugee status

Once approved for a green card, you can maintain your permanent resident status indefinitely if you comply with specific rules and regulations, such as not committing any actions that would make you removable under immigration law. On the other hand, citizenship grants you additional rights and privileges that a permanent resident does not have. These include:

• Eligibility for specific government jobs
• Travel on a U.S. passport
• Sponsor relatives for immigration to the U.S.

To become a U.S. citizen, you need to have been a permanent resident for a certain period (usually five years, although this can be shorter in some cases), demonstrate good moral character, pass a citizenship test, and demonstrate proficiency in English.

Application Denied

In most cases, if your citizenship application is denied, it usually does not affect your permanent residency status. However, there are some scenarios where a denial of citizenship could potentially lead to complications with your green card:

Fraud or Misrepresentation

If it is discovered that you obtained your green card through fraud or misrepresentation, your permanent residency status could be revoked. This could happen during the citizenship application process if inconsistencies or falsehoods are uncovered.

Criminal Activity

Committing certain crimes or engaging in activities that make you removable under immigration law can jeopardize both your citizenship application and your permanent residency status.

Abandonment of Permanent Residency

If you spend extended periods of time outside the United States without a reentry permit or fail to maintain ties to the country, immigration authorities could consider your permanent residency abandoned.

Contact an Illinois Immigration Lawyer for Legal Advice

If your citizenship application has been denied, you may have the option to appeal the decision or reapply in the future, depending on the reasons for the denial. It is crucial to consult with an Illinois immigration attorney to understand your options and any potential consequences for your permanent residency status. Call Mevorah & Giglio Law Offices at 630-932-9100 to schedule a free and confidential consultation.