Naturalization generally protects immigrants from removal from the United States. Once immigrants complete the naturalization process, they are citizens. They can vote, and they are usually no longer at risk of removal from the country.
Denaturalization is the primary exception to that rule. In certain, unusual circumstances, immigrants who have become naturalized citizens could lose their citizenship and then face removal from the United States.
Recent changes in immigration policy have reintroduced denaturalization as a solution for certain immigration issues. When are naturalized citizens vulnerable to denaturalization?
When there is proof of immigration fraud
Generally speaking, denaturalization often occurs because an immigrant misrepresented their circumstances or engaged in fraudulent conduct to enter the United States or qualify for naturalization. Allegations of marriage fraud to obtain a green card and citizenship could potentially lead to denaturalization.
So could the discovery of misrepresentation regarding a criminal history. Immigrants who lie about the offenses that they committed abroad or here in the United States in order to secure naturalization could be at risk of losing their citizenship after authorities discover the truth.
There are a handful of other situations that could lead to denaturalization. Those who qualify for naturalization in part because of military service could face denaturalization after a dishonorable discharge. Additionally, those with proven ties to terrorist organizations and other enemies of the state after becoming citizens of the United States could be at risk of denaturalization.
The loss of citizenship can lead to an immigrant’s removal from the country. Reviewing pending litigation related to denaturalization can help immigrants protect their status and limit their risk of removal proceedings.