You took a long time to prepare to become a U.S. citizen. There was a lot of paperwork involved. You paid the fees. You may have even worked with a lawyer to apply.
However, you just found out that your application was denied. What can you do? Can you reapply? Or was this your last chance?
Found out how to proceed if your U.S. citizenship application was denied in Florida.
Find Out Why You Were Denied
You will find out why you were denied when the USCIS sends you a letter. Then, you can figure out where to go from there depending on the reason.
Take the English and/or Civics Test Again
You will need to know a certain amount of English and pass the English and civics tests; a passing score for civics is 6 out of 10 questions answered correctly. If you fail these tests, USCIS will reschedule you and allow you to take them again within 60 to 90 days from the date of your initial testing. Make sure you study thoroughly so that you can pass the second time around. You may need to hire an English tutor and take practice civics tests online.
Pay Your Taxes, Child Support, and Alimony
If you were denied because you owe taxes, child support, and/or alimony, make sure you pay those as quickly as possible. If you cannot afford to, then consult with an immigration attorney/tax adviser on what to do.
Wait to Apply to Meet the Physical Presence Requirements
You may not have met the physical presence requirements, which means you have to be a continuous resident in the U.S. for at least five years once you become a lawful permanent resident. Essentially, once you get your green card, you cannot leave the U.S. for more than six months at a time, or else you are breaking your continuous residency requirement. If it hasn’t been five years of continuous residency, then wait until you reach it to apply for citizenship.
Contact an Immigration Attorney
An immigration attorney can help you apply for citizenship. With their assistance, you’ll have the best chance possible of being granted citizenship. They will let you know if you qualify for it. If you’ve been denied, they can fix the problem and get you on the road to citizenship.
Once you are citizen, you can experience benefits like:
- Getting a U.S. passport
- Living and working anywhere you please
- Traveling out of the country for as long as you want
- Voting in local and national elections
Keep in mind that you will also be subject to U.S. laws and taxes. You must be a law-abiding citizen at all times. Once you become a naturalized citizen, you can’t be deported, but this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t follow the laws. Make sure that you appreciate your citizenship status and your beautiful new country, where you can feel free to pursue your goals as well as the American dream.
Contact a Florida Immigration Attorney
Do you have questions about becoming a U.S. citizen with the assistance of an immigration attorney in Florida? Then contact Florida Immigration Law Counsel through our website or by calling 1-800-666-4996. We deal with the government so you don’t have to. We look forward to helping you at this time.
