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Top 10 Reasons For A Delay Or Denial Of The N-400 Application

Top 10 Reasons For A Delay Or Denial Of The N-400 Application Lawyer, Houston, Texas

USCIS received an unprecedented number of naturalization applications in recent years—more than 971,000 applications in FY 2016, compared to 738,000 in FY 2015. Increased filings, technological issues, and higher fees have contributed to significant processing delays. Working with an experienced immigration attorney can help prevent avoidable setbacks and ensure your N-400 application moves forward smoothly.

Below are the top reasons why N-400 applications are delayed or denied.

  1. Submitting the Wrong Filing Fee. USCIS fees change periodically. Applicants 75 years of age or older are exempt from the biometrics fee, but many people still pay it by mistake. Incorrect fees lead to immediate rejection and delays.

  2. Submitting Invalid or Unreliable Payments. Many applicants use Form G 1450 (credit card authorization), but credit card payments can fail for reasons outside your control. If the payment does not process, USCIS will reject the entire application. Attorneys can recommend safer, more reliable payment methods.

  3. Failing to disclose criminal history. Applicants must disclose all criminal history, including:

    • Arrests
    • Citations
    • Convictions
    • Probation
    • Alternative sentences
    • Expunged or dismissed cases

    Even old or minor offenses can affect eligibility. Failure to disclose can result in denial and potential allegations of misrepresentation.

  4. Not Demonstrating Good Moral Character. USCIS evaluates good moral character during the statutory period. Issues that may lead to denial include:

    • Certain criminal offenses
    • False testimony
    • Failure to pay child support
    • Polygamy
    • Extramarital affairs
    • Fraud or misrepresentation

    An attorney can help assess whether any issues may impact eligibility.

  5. Filing the Application at the Wrong Location. Where you file depends on:

    • Your state of residence
    • Whether the N-400 is filed alone or with other applications
    • The courier service used

    Sending the application to the wrong address can cause major delays.

  6. Submitting Incorrect Documents or Missing Evidence. Applicants must prove they meet all naturalization requirements. Submitting the wrong forms, outdated forms, or insufficient supporting evidence can lead to denial. USCIS will not correct errors for you.

  7. Providing Incorrect or Incomplete Information. Mistakes on the N-400 can result in a finding of material misrepresentation, even if the error was unintentional. Misrepresentation is a common reason for denial. An attorney can help ensure accuracy and completeness.

  8. Hiring a Non Attorney or Unqualified Representative. Before hiring someone, applicants should confirm:

    • The attorney is licensed and eligible to practice law
    • The attorney has experience with naturalization cases
    • The attorney has positive client reviews
    • Communication is clear and direct

    Unqualified representatives can cause serious harm to your case.

  9. Missing Appointments or Deadlines. USCIS sends notices for biometrics, interviews, and requests for evidence. Missing even one appointment can delay or jeopardize your case. When represented by an attorney, both you and your attorney receive notices, reducing the risk of missed deadlines.

  10. Not Preparing for the Naturalization Interview. The N-400 interview includes:

    • A review of your application
    • English language testing
    • Civics testing

    Proper preparation is essential. An experienced attorney can provide sample questions, explain testing procedures, and help you understand what to expect.

Experience Matters

The Law Office of David Nguyen, PC has successfully handled thousands of immigration cases, including naturalization applications. Our team can guide you through the N-400 process and help you avoid unnecessary delays or denials.

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