Foreigners in the United States can apply for visas and benefits. Let’s say a Silicon Valley tech firm offers a job to a skilled Python programmer from Vietnam. In this situation, she can get an H-1B non-immigrant visa from the Department of State. If she marries an American citizen while working in the U.S., she could apply for an adjustment of status benefit from United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), thus becoming an immigrant.
Naturalization is the highest benefit USCIS offers to immigrants. It confers the privileges and responsibilities that apply to American citizens. Becoming a naturalized U.S. citizen is a process that begins with a five-year physical residency requirement that can only be waived through extraordinary circumstances such as military service.
According to statistics cited by the Migration Policy Institute, 53 percent of immigrants in the U.S. enjoy the naturalization benefit. In 2024, USCIS adjudicators reviewed 993,120 Form N-400 Application for Naturalization packets, of which 86,333 were denied. This statistic represents a 13 percent denial rate, slightly higher than the historical 10 to 12 percent average.
Most Naturalization Requests Are Successful
When compared to the immigration systems of other nations, the U.S. has one of the highest approval rates for naturalization requests. When Form N-400 is submitted along with the required documents and fees, applicants wait between 6 and 12 months to complete the process, which includes the English language and civics tests. After their packets are adjudicated, applicants receive a Form N-445, Notice of Naturalization Oath Ceremony letter to complete the process and get their certificates.
With an approval rate over 85 percent, naturalization is among the most efficient benefits handled by USCIS. This high approval rate is supported by the dedication and interest demonstrated by applicants. For many immigrants, the path to completing the N-400 process is more straightforward than the green card journey, which has an 80 percent approval rate.
Individuals with employment-based visas granted for extraordinary abilities or national interest may be eligible for an expedited naturalization process. For the best advice about issues such as employment-based visas and employer-sponsored petitions, San Diego immigrants should consult experienced immigration attorneys.
Common Reasons Foreigners Are Denied U.S. Citizenship
Incorrect information is the most common reason N-400 applications are declined. It’s important to note that incorrect or incomplete information doesn’t automatically result in a blunt rejection. In many cases, USCIS adjudicators make a note and bring up the discrepancy during the interview and testing appointment. In other cases, applicants get a Request for Evidence notice that must be addressed within a specific timeframe to avoid a rejection.
Failing the English language and civics tests is another common reason for N-400 denial. Some applicants may qualify for testing exemptions based on their age and how long they’ve legally resided in the U.S. Otherwise, applicants can access free preparation for both tests through community resources.
More complex reasons for N-400 denial include criminal histories, interrupted residence, outstanding federal taxes, and failure to pay child support obligations. If any of these issues apply to you, the best move is to contact an immigration law firm before submitting the petition. Seasoned attorneys can assess how your background and financial situation may impact your N-400 application. Plus, they can also recommend affirmative strategies that can serve as waivers to get approval.
If they need help from attorneys with extensive experience in the laws governing immigration, San Diego residents should contact KS Visa Law today. From family-based immigration to naturalization procedures, we can address all your immigration-related needs. Call us to schedule an appointment.
