Revocation of U.S. citizenship status is now a priority for the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ). The DOJ gave U.S. attorneys wider discretion on pursuing citizenship revocation cases in court. The formal revocation of person’s U.S. citizenship is called denaturalization.
Denaturalization was used heavily during the 1940s and 1950s. Its’ use expanded during the last few presidential administrations. The process is used, primarily, when individuals fail to provide full details about their criminal history on their initial citizenship applications. Ground for revocation of U.S. citizenship include immigration fraud and being a member of a designated terrorist organization.
The focus on denaturalization is the latest method of the government’s growing immigration enforcement measures. The online memo also stated the DOJ will pursue denaturalization cases via civil litigation. This means individuals’ citizenship can be removed without criminal charges. Naturalized citizens found guilty in personal injury, contract, family law, and class action lawsuits could face denaturalization.
It’s unclear if children who acquired citizenship through their parents could lose it if their parent’s citizenship is revoked via the new guidelines. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) guidelines state citizen children that gained their status via their parents may lose it if their parent’s citizenship is revoked. There’s no clarification if civil charges mandate the same consequences.
As always, ILBSG actively monitors ongoing U.S. immigration news. If you have questions about any U.S. immigration related issue, contact us. Working with an experienced attorney ensures you get the right advice based on the most recent laws. In an ever-evolving immigration policy landscape, it’s particularly critical.