The 10 Most Common Mistakes in the U.S. Citizenship Application and How to Avoid Them
Applying for U.S. citizenship is an important and often complex process. Small mistakes can delay or even result in the denial of your application. To ensure a successful application, check out the 10 most common mistakes and how to avoid them.
1. Filling Out Form N-400 Incorrectly
Form N-400 is extensive and requires detailed information about your immigration history, employment, and travel. Any mistakes or omissions can lead to delays or rejection.
Example: João submitted his form without reviewing the information. At his interview, the officer noticed inconsistencies in his listed addresses, causing a months-long delay in his approval.
How to avoid:
- Review all answers before submitting;
- Ensure you use accurate and updated information;
- Seek help from an immigration specialist if you have doubts.
🔗 Access Form N-400 on the official USCIS website
2. Not Meeting Residency and Physical Presence Requirements
To qualify, you must meet residency and physical presence requirements in the U.S. Many applicants mistakenly apply before reaching the required time.
How to avoid:
- Verify that you have lived in the U.S. for 5 years (or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen);
- Confirm that you have spent at least 30 months inside the U.S. in the last 5 years.
🔗 Check the eligibility requirements for citizenship
3. Not Declaring All International Travel
Failing to list international trips can be considered an omission and cause complications in your interview.
How to avoid:
- Review your passport and travel records before filling out the form;
- List all trips taken in the last 5 years, even short ones.
4. Not Maintaining Good Moral Character
USCIS evaluates your conduct over the last 5 years. Unpaid traffic tickets, failure to file taxes, or having a criminal record can impact your approval.
Example: Maria didn’t realize that a mistake in tax filing could affect her citizenship. During her interview, the officer questioned her failure to declare taxes, potentially leading to a denial.
How to avoid:
- Resolve any legal issues before applying;
- Pay taxes correctly and maintain good civic behavior.
5. Incorrectly Paying the Application Fee
The application fee is $725. Sending an incorrect amount or an invalid payment method can cause your application to be returned.
How to avoid:
- Check the updated fee on the USCIS website;
- If requesting a fee waiver, submit Form I-912 correctly filled out.
6. Forgetting to Sign the Form
Many applicants forget to sign the N-400, resulting in automatic rejection of their application.
How to avoid:
- Review all pages before submitting and ensure you sign in the designated area.
7. Failing the English and Civics Test
The naturalization test requires knowledge of the English language and U.S. history. Many applicants fail due to lack of preparation.
How to avoid:
- Study in advance using official USCIS materials;
- Practice reading, writing, and pronunciation in English;
- Join English classes and citizenship preparation courses.
🔗 Download free USCIS study materials
8. Missing the USCIS Interview
If you do not attend on the scheduled date, your application may be denied.
How to avoid:
- Note the interview date and arrive early;
- If you need to reschedule, contact USCIS in advance.
9. Providing False or Incomplete Information
Lying or omitting information can result in citizenship denial and possible legal consequences.
How to avoid:
- Be honest and provide accurate documentation;
- Consult a specialist if you have concerns about sensitive information.
10. Not Updating Your Address with USCIS
If you move and fail to update your address with USCIS, you may miss important notifications, including your interview date.
How to avoid:
- Report any address changes by completing Form AR-11 on the USCIS website.
🔗 Update your address with USCIS
Schedule Your Class and Access Our Library
At Freedom to Belong, we offer free English and citizenship preparation classes to help immigrants through the naturalization process. You can enroll in a class right now:
📅 Schedule a Citizenship Preparation Class
We also have a free online library full of resources to help you study:
In our library, you will find:
- Study guides and materials for the citizenship test;
- Practice exams for the naturalization test;
- Videos and interactive resources to improve your English;
- Tips on the naturalization process.
Conclusion
Avoiding these mistakes can significantly increase your chances of obtaining U.S. citizenship without complications. If you need help with your application, Freedom to Belong can assist!
📢 Our team of paralegals can review your application and ensure it is complete and accurate.
💡 If you pass our 15-question test and interview with a native English speaker, we may cover all the costs of your application!
If you need assistance, contact us: 📩 [email protected]
🔗 Learn more about how we can help on our blog
🇺🇸 Good luck on your path to U.S. citizenship! 🇺🇸
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