Frequently Asked Questions About U.S. Citizenship

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

Why divorce is not a bar to naturalization, but might raise questions.

Ways in which a U.S. citizen can lose that status after living abroad or performing certain other acts.

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

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.

A dismissal makes it far less likely that the crime will be held against the citizenship applicant -- but further research will be needed.

Every year, the U.S. Department of State (DOS) initially denies thousands of U.S. passport applications because the applicant has a “non-institutional birth,” despite the fact that the applicant has a valid U.S. birth certificate.

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.

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

The exception allowing spouses of U.S. citizens to submit an N-400 for U.S. citizenship early doesn't apply if the U.S. spouse dies.

One of the biggest hurdles in successfully applying for U.S. citizenship is proving one's good moral character. Here are some commonly asked questions about this critical requirement.

What to do in an emergency, when you must ask USCIS to reschedule your citizenship interview.

If you forgot to ask for a correction at the citizenship oath ceremony, there's a form that you can send USCIS requesting the change: the N-565.

Delays happen when one is waiting for naturalized U.S. citizenship—here's how to follow up.

After receiving your Naturalization Certificate, you can apply for a U.S. passport at the oath ceremony location.

There is a small risk that applying for U.S. citizenship could lead to not only denial, but loss of your U.S. lawful permanent residence.

Last-minute questions about legal issues with taking the oath of allegiance for naturalized U.S. citizenship.