29 South Webster Street, Suite 370 Naperville,
IL 60540

Receiving a naturalization denial can be a frustrating and discouraging experience. However, if your N-400 application for U.S. citizenship is denied, you may have options to challenge the decision. One of the most important steps in this process is providing strong, persuasive evidence to support your appeal or a re-application.

At Kasturi Law, LLC, our Illinois immigration attorney helps clients overcome naturalization denials by identifying the best legal strategies and presenting compelling evidence to strengthen their case. Here’s what you need to know about overturning a naturalization denial and the type of evidence that can make a difference.

Naturalization Denial

Understanding Why Naturalization Applications Are Denied

Before gathering evidence, it is essential to understand the reason(s) U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) denied your application.

Common grounds for naturalization denials include:

  • Failure to Meet Continuous Residence or Physical Presence Requirements – USCIS may believe you spent too much time outside the U.S. or did not maintain lawful residency.
  • Good Moral Character Issues – Prior criminal convictions, failure to pay taxes, or false statements on the application may impact eligibility.
  • Failure to Pass the English or Civics Test – Some applicants may struggle with the required exams.
  • Failure to Demonstrate Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR) Status – If USCIS questions the validity of your green card, your naturalization could be denied.
  • Failure to Register for Selective Service – Male applicants between 18 and 26 who did not register may face challenges unless they can demonstrate that it was not intentional.
  • Discrepancies or False Information on the Application – Any misrepresentation, even if unintentional, can lead to a denial.

Once you know the reason for the denial, you can determine what evidence is needed to challenge the decision effectively.

What Are Your Options After a Naturalization Denial?

If USCIS denies your naturalization application, you generally have three options:

  • File an N-336 Request for a Hearing on a Naturalization Decision

This allows you to challenge the denial and present new evidence at an N-336 appeal hearing. The request must be filed within 30 days of receiving the denial notice. A USCIS officer not involved in the original decision will review your case.

  • Reapply for Naturalization

If your denial was due to failure to meet eligibility requirements, you may wait and reapply once you qualify. Correcting errors and submitting more substantial evidence can increase your chances of approval.

  • File a Federal Lawsuit

If your N-336 appeal is denied, you may petition a federal court for a judge to review your case.

This process is complex, so having an experienced immigration attorney is crucial.

How Kasturi Law, LLC Can Help

At Kasturi Law, LLC, we understand how stressful a naturalization denial can be. Our firm helps clients in Chicago and throughout Illinois challenge denials and strengthen their applications with compelling evidence.

We can:

  • Analyze your denial notice and identify the best course of action.
  • Gather and submit strong supporting evidence to address USCIS concerns.
  • Prepare and file an N-336 appeal if applicable.
  • Represent you at USCIS hearings and consular interviews.
  • Guide you through the reapplication process to maximize your chances of success.

If your naturalization application was denied, don’t give up hope. Our experienced Illinois immigration attorney can help you fight the decision and work toward obtaining your U.S. citizenship. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

Whether you prefer an in-person meeting, a phone call, or a Zoom session, we are here to accommodate you. You can even schedule a consultation directly using our online calendar, choosing between 30-minute or 60-minute timeframes.