FAQs About Citizenship Bars and Eligibility Problems

On Probation: Can I Get U.S. Citizenship?

A green card holder who, after being convicted of a crime, is placed on probation or parole, or has a suspended sentence, must successfully complete it in order to be approved for U.S. citizenship.

Got a DUI: Can I File Form N-400 for U.S. Citizenship?

Though not an automatic bar, a DUI or DWI on your record can hurt your chances of proving the necessary good moral character for naturalization.

Arrested, But Case Dismissed: Can Immigrant Still Get U.S. Citizenship?

Any time a U.S. lawful permanent resident (a green card holder) has a run-in with police or law enforcement, even if the case is ultimately dismissed, it is cause for concern.

If I’ve Been Arrested for Visiting a Prostitute, Will I Be Denied U.S. Citizenship?

Arrest for soliciting a prostitute is not an automatic bar to naturalization, but could nevertheless lead to deportation, and is definitely a factor in proving good moral character.

Will USCIS Check My Criminal Background If I Apply for Citizenship?

After you apply for naturalization, USCIS takes your fingerprints for a reason.

Haven’t paid child support: Can I get U.S. citizenship?

Whether you will be approved for naturalization depends on the reasons why you didn't or couldn't pay child support.

Can I Apply for Citizenship If I’ve Divorced the Person Who Got Me My Green Card?

Why divorce is not a bar to approval for naturalized U.S. citizenship, but might raise questions.

Will Being Unemployed, in Debt, or Bankrupt Prevent My Becoming a U.S. Citizen?

Financial troubles do not, by themselves, bar a green card holder from naturalizing.

Can Naturalized U.S. Citizen Lose Citizenship by Living in Another Country?

It's uncommon for someone with U.S. citizenship to lose that status, but not impossible--find out more here.

I Owe Back Taxes: Can I Still Apply for U.S. Citizenship?

How tax debt affects your ability to show good moral character for naturalization purposes.

My Husband Has Another Wife Living Outside U.S.: Can I Become a U.S. Citizen?

You will not qualify for citizenship if you are part of a polygamous web of family relationships, even if you have married only once.