Major Crimes That Might Bar Your US Citizenship Application

For many immigrants, obtaining US citizenship is often considered a tedious process. To be eligible for US citizenship application, you must be of a good moral and ethical standard. Certain past criminal or unlawful acts could limit your chances of getting citizenship. You might ask; What are those criminal or unlawful acts? Here, you will find the significant crimes that might limit your chances of receiving US citizenship.

For starters, the general question immigration officials will ask during your application process is whether or not you’ve been charged with, arrested for, or convicted for any unlawful act in the past. These crimes are not geographically limited to the States, meaning such illegal actions still count even if they were committed outside the country.

You should note that the nature of such crimes affects your application process differently. In essence, the severity of likely unlawful acts can cause a temporary or permanent bar on your request for US citizenship.

Crimes That Equate a Permanent Bar on US Citizenship Applications

If you have been convicted of either murder or an aggravated felony after November 29, 1990, you are unlikely to get your US citizenship application approved. According to the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), many crimes qualify as aggravated felonies and are usually the most significant. The most common crimes are rape, drug or firearm trafficking, prostitution, sexual abuse of a minor, running a prostitution business, racketeering, and fraud of at least $10,000.

However, some other misdemeanors may still be classified as aggravated felonies, including seemingly minor issues like resisting arrest, driving under the influence, and smuggling aliens into the US are some of the crimes that can mar your US citizenship application. The nature of these crimes can be somewhat complex; hence, it’s in your best interest to consult an experienced immigration lawyer if you have any concerns.

Crimes That Equate to A Temporary Bar on US Citizenship Applications

Certain crimes could temporarily halt your application process. However, if you wait them out for a specific time and maintain a good moral attitude, it is likely for the USCIS to approve your citizenship application. Such acts include spending at least 180 days in jail or prison, operating a commercial vice enterprise, engaging in illegal vice activities, being convicted of or admitting to crimes of moral turpitude, having an illicit source of income such as gambling, or getting convicted of two or more gambling crimes.

Regardless of the nature of crimes committed, hiring the right professionals keeps you more informed and helps you know the necessary steps to achieve your desired outcome.