Three Things That Will Prevent You From Becoming A U.S. Citizen

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Most people who come into the country illegally seek legal status and citizenship. This is tricky business, since you do not want to be deported before you can become a citizen. If you are in this position, immigration law has ways of helping you. Seek an immigration lawyer before it is too late. Also, you should be aware of things that will prevent you from becoming a U.S. citizen.

Committing an Unlawful Act

Committing a crime before you apply for citizenship gets you immediate deportation and denial of citizenship. This is an important question on the application to become a U.S. citizen, and lying to hide the fact that you committed a crime also results in deportation. Before desperation leads you down a dark path, apply and acquire citizenship. Then you will not be deported, although you will face criminal charges for any crimes you commit once you are a citizen.

Lying on Your Citizenship Application

Because you are sworn in as a citizen under a U.S. judge, you must swear to tell the whole truth and nothing but the truth on your application. Under a penalty of perjury, you agree that nothing on your application is a lie. If it is discovered at a later date that you have lied on your application, you could be deported. Even so much as "fudging" the truth a little bit to make your answers a little more positive is considered lying, and it is not allowed.

Having Remote or Direct Ties to Terrorist Groups

Without a doubt, your application will either be denied or closely investigated if you have indirect or direct ties to terrorist cells and/or terrorist groups. For example, if your great uncle is a former Taliban foot soldier, the U.S. government will want to know things like how often you still have contact with this uncle and whether or not you see him in your home or visit him in his. You may have to undergo a thorough investigation, known as "vetting," before your application may be approved or denied. If you left your native country to get away from close relatives that were part of a terrorist group, you may be able to claim asylum under federal immigration law and remain in the country. However, do not be too surprised if you are followed and watched for awhile while your application for citizenship is in the process of being approved.


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