How U.S. Citizenship Can Be Revoked
October 23, 2025
Every year, thousands of immigrants achieve one of the greatest milestones in their lives — becoming a U.S. citizen. But for some naturalized citizens, the fear of losing that citizenship lingers. With nearly 25 million naturalized Americans today, it’s no wonder many are asking: Can the government take my citizenship away?
At McBean Law, we help clients nationwide navigate the complex world of U.S. immigration law with confidence, compassion, and clarity. Led by Attorney LaToya McBean Pompy, a nationally recognized immigration attorney and 2024, 2025, & 2026 honoree of Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch®, McBean Law brings unmatched experience in both federal policy and courtroom advocacy. Before founding the firm in 2016, Attorney McBean Pompy worked in various roles within the U.S. Department of Justice, U.S. Congress, and both federal and state courts.
First Ground: Misrepresentation or Concealment During Naturalization
The first way the government can revoke citizenship is if it determines that someone procured naturalization through willful misrepresentation or by concealing a material fact.
In plain terms, this means that if a person lied or withheld critical information during the naturalization process — whether on the N-400 application or during the interview — the government can reopen their case, even years later.
For example, someone who concealed membership in a group that’s considered a terrorist organization or failed to disclose a criminal history could face denaturalization proceedings.
The government must prove four key elements before stripping citizenship:
- The person misrepresented or concealed a fact.
- The misrepresentation or concealment was willful.
- The fact was material — meaning it could have influenced the decision.
- Citizenship was obtained as a result of that misrepresentation or concealment.
If the government cannot prove even one of these points, denaturalization cannot move forward.
Second Ground: Illegal Procurement of Naturalization
The second basis for denaturalization occurs when someone was never actually eligible to naturalize in the first place.
This could happen if a person failed to meet the fundamental requirements of naturalization, such as:
- Continuous residence and physical presence in the U.S.
- Lawful permanent resident status
- Good moral character
- Attachment to the principles of the U.S. Constitution
A person’s beliefs or affiliations can even come into question. For example, the federal government can pursue denaturalization if someone becomes affiliated with a communist party, totalitarian regime, or terrorist organization within five years after becoming a citizen. This reflects how citizenship is not just a legal status — it’s also tied to a person’s demonstrated loyalty to the Constitution.
In a recent episode on McBean Immigration TV, “US Citizenship Can Be Taken Away: Here’s Why”, Attorney LaToya McBean Pompy breaks down the two legal grounds for denaturalization — the process by which the U.S. government can revoke a person’s citizenship.
Final Thoughts
While denaturalization is rare, it’s a powerful reminder that honesty and accuracy are crucial during every stage of the immigration process. Misrepresentations — even unintentional ones — can have long-term consequences.
If you’ve ever worried that a past mistake might affect your citizenship or your eligibility for naturalization, now is the time to seek legal advice. At McBean Law, we have helped countless individuals across the country face complex immigration issues — including cases involving fraud allegations, citizenship questions, and removal risks. Schedule a consultation with us by calling (914) 898-9488 to get experienced legal support for your immigration journey. Follow us on YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook for more resources and updates.
FAQs:
1. What is denaturalization?
Denaturalization is the legal process where the U.S. government cancels a person’s citizenship because it was obtained illegally, fraudulently, or through misrepresentation. It only applies to naturalized citizens — not those born in the U.S.
2. Who investigates denaturalization cases?
Denaturalization cases are typically investigated by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Department of Justice (DOJ). The U.S. Attorney’s Office may file a civil case in federal court to revoke citizenship.
3. Can lying on my naturalization form cause denaturalization?
Yes. Even small or unintentional mistakes can be seen as willful misrepresentation if they involve key facts like past crimes, immigration history, or affiliations. It’s critical to be truthful and accurate on the N-400 and during the interview.
4. What’s the difference between criminal and civil denaturalization?
Civil denaturalization is when the government asks a court to revoke citizenship — there’s no jail time, but the person loses citizenship. Criminal denaturalization happens when someone is convicted of naturalization fraud and can face imprisonment along with losing citizenship.
5. How can I protect my U.S. citizenship status?
Keep accurate immigration records, avoid false statements on applications, and stay informed about changes in immigration law. If you believe there’s something in your past that might raise concern, consult an immigration lawyer right away for a confidential review.
