Understanding Denaturalization: What You Need to Know 

As immigration policies are expected to change drastically in 2025 under a new Trump Administration, understanding denaturalization is more important than ever. Whether you’re a naturalized U.S. citizen or planning to apply, knowing the process, risks, and your rights is crucial. Denaturalization, the process of revoking citizenship, can have life-altering consequences. 

LaToya McBean Pompy, who immigrated to the United States herself, was inspired to help families unite by founding McBean Law. If you or loved one need assistance with denaturalization issues or visa applications, don’t hesitate to reach out to us today. You can contact us here or call (914) 898-9488 to schedule a private consultation with LaToya and her experienced immigration attorney team, who are ready to guide you through every step of the process. 

Learn more about denaturalization right away by watching LaToya McBean Pompy’s video, “Denaturalization: Who is at RISK? (PROCESS EXPLAINED)”, on McBean Law’s YouTube channel. Click here to watch.

 Additionally, feel free to watch us on YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook for updates.

What is Denaturalization? 

Denaturalization is the legal process of revoking citizenship from a naturalized individual. Unlike naturalization, denaturalization typically arises due to serious issues, such as: 

1. Illegal Procurement: Failure to meet eligibility requirements like residency or good moral character at the time of application. 

2. Fraud or Misrepresentation: Concealing material facts or lying during the naturalization process. 

3. Membership in Prohibited Organizations: Affiliations with groups like terrorist organizations or the Communist Party after naturalization. 

4. Military Discharge Issues: Being dishonorably discharged after gaining citizenship through military service. 

Why is Denaturalization a Concern Now? 

Under recent administrations, denaturalization efforts have received increased attention. For example: 

• Operation Janus under the Obama administration targeted individuals who had obtained citizenship despite having removal orders. 

• The first Trump administration increased denaturalization investigations, referring hundreds of cases and requesting budgets to review the files of up to 700,000 naturalized citizens. 

• The recent rhetoric from the incoming Trump administration suggests plans to turbocharge denaturalization cases, expanding investigations and legal actions in cases involving alleged fraud or misrepresentation during the naturalization process. 

While denaturalization cases remain rare, they often draw significant attention due to their implications for affected individuals and families. 

How Does the Process Work? 

Denaturalization is a lengthy and resource-intensive process involving: 

• Investigation: The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) identifies potential cases and refers them to the Department of Justice (DOJ). 

• Litigation: The DOJ files a federal civil or criminal complaint. If the case proceeds, it goes through the court system. 

• Outcome: If the court rules in favor of the government, citizenship is revoked, and the individual may face deportation. 

If you’re concerned about denaturalization, be sure to check out LaToya McBean Pompy’ ‘s YouTube video,  “Court Decision Makes it TOUGHER to Denaturalize CITIZENS” to ease your worries. You can click here to watch.

Key Statistics 

• Historically, the U.S. averaged about 11 denaturalization cases annually between 1990 and 2017. 

• Under the first Trump administration, referrals for denaturalization cases increased by 600%. 

• The government wins approximately 95% of denaturalization cases due to thorough investigations before filing. 

What Should You Do? 

• For Green Card Holders: Apply for naturalization (if eligible) to secure your status. 

• For Naturalized Citizens: Stay informed about your rights and risks. If you’re concerned about potential errors or past issues, consult a New York immigration lawyer at McBean Law 

Final Thoughts 

While denaturalization remains an uncommon process, staying informed and working with an expert is critical. At McBean Law, we are committed to protecting your rights and empowering you. 

For personalized guidance, reach out to New York immigration lawyers at McBean Law today. Schedule a consultation with us by calling (914) 898-9488. Follow us on YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook for more resources and updates. 

FAQS: 

1. Can my ex-husband face denaturalization for omitting his 2 children on his green card application? 

Possibly. Omitting information like existing children on a U.S. green card application could be considered immigration fraud or misrepresentation, leading to penalties like green card revocation or removal proceedings. 

2. As a U.S. citizen married to a foreigner, can I face denaturalization? 

No, being married to a foreigner does not, on its own, subject you to denaturalization. Denaturalization typically occurs if a naturalized citizen is found to have obtained citizenship fraudulently, concealed material facts during the naturalization process, or committed certain serious crimes. 

3. Are individuals with work permits at risk of facing denaturalization 

No, individuals with work permits are not at risk of denaturalization, as denaturalization applies exclusively to people who have already obtained U.S. citizenship. 

4. If you have been detained by ICE but are now a U.S. citizen, are you safe from denaturalization? 

If you have been detained by ICE but are now a U.S. citizen, it is unlikely that you are at risk of denaturalization unless your citizenship was obtained fraudulently or through misrepresentation. 

5. Will denaturalization affect U.S. citizen children of pending asylum seekers? 

No, denaturalization applies to the individual who obtained citizenship, not their U.S. citizen children. U.S. citizen children are not at risk of losing their citizenship due to their parent’s denaturalization. However, the parent’s legal status and immigration proceedings may still impact the family dynamic or their ability to stay in the country.