What Naturalized Citizens Need to Know About Denaturalization in 2025

KW

Jul 29, 2025By Kristen Wilson

A New Era of Citizenship Scrutiny

At KW Immigration Law PC, we are committed to protecting your immigration journey at every stage, including after you’ve become a U.S. citizen.

Recently, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) issued a new policy that prioritizes denaturalization, the process of revoking U.S. citizenship. This means that naturalized citizens may now face more government scrutiny, even years after receiving their citizenship.

citizenship oath

What is Denaturalization?

Denaturalization is the process through which a naturalized citizen can lose their citizenship status. Unlike the revocation of a visa or residency permit, denaturalization specifically targets individuals who have already been granted citizenship. It is important to note that this process does not apply to citizens by birth.

The process of denaturalization is generally initiated by the government and requires legal proceedings. The decision to denaturalize is not taken lightly and involves significant evidence and legal justification.

Why This Matters, Even If You’ve Been a Citizen for Years

For many of our clients, naturalization is the final step in a long road toward stability in the United States. But under the new policy, the government is:

  • Reviewing old immigration records for possible mistakes or omissions
  • Filing civil cases to remove citizenship, without the right to a jury or court-appointed lawyer
  • Targeting individuals for past criminal history, application issues, or certain post-citizenship conduct

In other words, naturalized citizens are not entirely safe from government review.

legal documents

Who Could Be Affected?

You may be at risk if:

  • There were errors or missing information in your immigration paperwork
  • You did not disclose an arrest or charge, even if it was dropped
  • Your application involved misunderstandings, translation issues, or outdated records
  • You are later accused of serious fraud or criminal activity

What You Can Do

If you are a naturalized citizen or applying for naturalization, this is an important time to protect your status. You should:

  1. Review your application history with an immigration attorney
  2. Get legal advice right away if you receive any government notices or letters
  3. Keep copies of all immigration records and documents
  4. Be completely accurate and thorough in any future applications

At KW Immigration Law PC, we help clients assess their risks, review past filings, and take proactive steps to stay protected.

Contract, woman and advisor in office for signature, information or document for job application. Advice, client or human resource agent with paperwork for registration, opportunity or deal agreement

Our Commitment to You

We understand that immigration is personal. It’s not just paperwork, it’s your life, your family, and your future. This new denaturalization policy is a reminder that even U.S. citizens must stay aware of their legal position.

Whether you are preparing for naturalization, reviewing an old case, or concerned about how this policy might affect you, we are here to help.

📞 Contact us today for a consultation. Your citizenship matters. So does your peace of mind.