What Happens to Your Green Card If Your Citizenship Application Is Denied?
An immigrant can apply for a green card if they wish to work and live in the US as permanent residents. They, however, continue to be the citizens of the country to which they originally belong. There is a huge difference in the responsibilities, rights, and privileges of a green card holder and that of a US citizen.
US citizenship is the highest status that is accorded to an applicant under the US immigration law. It allows them the right to live permanently with family and friends in the country. But what happens when a green card holder is denied citizenship? Let’s find out.
But first…
What is the Difference Between a Greencard and US Citizenship?
Green card holders can avail of the social security benefits in the states. They can apply for visas for their spouses and children and can travel outside of the United States but for a limited period as this can negatively affect their residential status. They always stand a risk of losing their status and being deported to their homeland if they are charged and convicted of serious crimes. In general, you can become a green card holder through family (a US citizen) and employer sponsorships, or via the more difficult government-sponsored program, the US Green Card Lottery.
A US citizen, on the other hand, is eligible to vote in US elections. They have a right to sponsor their spouses, married and unmarried children, and other relatives to live in the US. They can freely travel outside the US without fearing that their citizenship may get revoked. Getting a Green Card is the first step toward citizenship. You must demonstrate reasonable proficiency in the English language and must possess knowledge of and respect for US history and its Constitution.
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Contact UsReasons For USCIS Rejecting Your Application for US Citizenship
The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) may deny your application for US citizenship on the following grounds -
- If the Green Card was obtained fraudulently
- Serious crimes committed by the applicant
- Lying on the Citizenship Application
- Defaulting on US taxes
- Failing the English proficiency test
- Voting in a US election
- Green Card renewal failure
- Failing American history exam
What Happens to Your Green Card?
In most cases, your green card remains unaffected even after your US Citizenship Application is denied. Failing the US English and History exam, inability to prove that you have been a continuous resident in the US for the requisite number of years, or applying prematurely will not affect your Green Card. You are granted a second chance to pass the US Citizenship tests and interview.
However, you may be placed in removal proceedings if USCIS discovers that you were never eligible for the Green Card in the first place, and/or resorted to fraudulent means of acquiring it. You may also be placed in removal proceedings if you were suspected of abandoning your US residency while you were a Green Card holder, and/or committed serious crimes in the interim.
Facing a citizenship denial can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t mean the end of your immigration journey. With guidance from Salinas Law Firm, you can understand your options, address the reasons for rejection, and take the right next steps to protect your Green Card. Their experienced team helps ensure a smoother, more confident reapplication process and keeps your path to US citizenship on track.
Final Thoughts
Immigration, green card, and citizenship matters are serious and warrant the help of legal professionals who can efficiently guide you through the entire process seamlessly. Therefore, consider hiring the best green card attorneys in Houston if you need help with green card issues.
At Salinas Law Firm, we have the most competent green card lawyers in Houston who can help you legally and efficiently deal with green card and US citizenship matters.
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. What happens to my Green Card if my citizenship application is denied?
Even if your US citizenship application is denied, your Green Card usually remains valid. Denials due to failing the English or History test, applying too early, or not meeting residency requirements typically do not affect your permanent resident status. You may get a second chance to reapply and prepare for the citizenship interview.
2. Can I reapply for US citizenship after a denial?
Yes, most applicants are eligible to reapply after a citizenship denial. Reviewing the reasons for the initial rejection, addressing deficiencies, and submitting a complete application the next time can significantly improve approval chances. Salinas Law Firm can provide guidance to ensure the reapplication process is smooth and well-prepared.
3. Under what circumstances can my Green Card be at risk?
While most citizenship denials do not affect a Green Card, serious issues such as fraud in obtaining the Green Card, criminal convictions, or abandoning US residency can lead to removal proceedings. Understanding your legal rights is essential to protect your status.
4. What are common reasons USCIS denies citizenship applications?
USCIS may reject applications for various reasons, including submitting false information, failing the English or American history test, defaulting on taxes, or voting illegally. Knowing these potential pitfalls beforehand can help applicants prepare more effectively.
5. How can legal assistance help after a citizenship denial?
Legal professionals can review your application, identify mistakes, and advise on next steps, including reapplication or correcting errors. Salinas Law Firm helps clients protect their Green Card and guides them through the process to improve their chances of successfully achieving US citizenship.
