USCIS naturalization delays are, unfortunately, very common for those seeking citizenship in the United States. Naturalization applications must go through several steps before approval, which can open the door for many different types of issues. Sometimes delays come directly from the USCIS, or they come from mistakes in your application. No matter the reason, you will need to know what to do next. Keep reading to find out what can cause USCIS naturalization delays and what your options are.
Top Reasons for Naturalization Delays
Before beginning the application process for naturalization, you should do your research regarding potential delays. Naturalization application delays can come up at any point during the application process, potentially resulting in months of wasted time.
Knowing what causes the most delays is the best way to avoid having them happen to your application.
Background Checks
The USCIS must perform background checks on all applicants, which can create delays. Sometimes the USCIS has difficulties accessing the information it needs, resulting in a longer processing time.
Sometimes background checks and security clearances are more complex, requiring more time. However, delays can also occur if the USCIS sees any discrepancies or red flags come up during the background check.
Document & Information Issues
Applying for naturalization requires extensive documentation in addition to the forms you must complete. Because of this, the room for error is significant.
Delays commonly occur if required documentation isn’t provided or there isn’t enough documentation. Additionally, you may not have filled out the naturalization forms correctly or the USCIS may have found errors or discrepancies in the information provided.
This is why it is important to consult with an immigration attorney as they can help you with the entire application process. An attorney will provide a second pair of eyes as well as their extensive experience with immigration law.
Immigration History
Along with a background check, the USCIS will also check your past immigration history. It does this to ensure you have provided accurate information and to check for any potential red flags.
Any issues the USCIS finds can result in lengthy delays, especially if there are criminal convictions or immigration offenses on record.
Changes in Information
Sometimes naturalization application delays can result from even the smallest errors. For example, your information may have changed, and you forgot to update it when submitting your application. Even something as seemingly insignificant as a change in address or marital status may slow down the naturalization process significantly.
USCIS Backlogs & Scheduling
The standard naturalization waittime will be greatly impacted by how many applications are coming in. If the USCIS has a high volume of applications it has to process, this usually results in processing delays.
Any type of error or delay with scheduling your citizenship interview can also slow down the entire naturalization process, as this is one of the most important steps.
How to Check the Status of Your Case
If you want to know whether or not your N-400 application is stuck, you need to keep track of the status of your case. By doing this, you can keep track of its progress and will know if it runs into problems.
The best way to check the status of your case is to use the online USCIS case status tool. Using the online tool provides an easy and fast way of staying up to date; however, you can also call by phone to request this information.
Also, you have the option of requesting an infopass appointment or congressional liaison assistance for additional support.
How to Avoid or Fix Naturalization Application Delays
It isn’t possible to avoid all types of naturalization application delays. But there are some things you can do to potentially avoid delays or at least address them.
The first thing you need to do before you ever submit your application is check for accuracy. Make sure you correctly filled out the form and provided the necessary documentation. You may need to provide additional documentation and evidence to support your application.
Also, if you have already submitted your application, keep an eye out for any updates. If the USCIS needs additional evidence, it will send you a request for evidence. Seeing and responding to this request as quickly as possible will help reduce how long this delay will last.
Aside from filing a thorough and accurate application, you also need to attend your interview and biometrics appointment. Failing to attend these interviews or delaying them will result in a much longer naturalization processing time.
If a naturalization application becomes stuck unnecessarily and isn’t moving forward, you have the option of filing a mandamus lawsuit. Keep in mind that this type of lawsuit is only reserved for circumstances where the delay is unreasonable and isn’t being resolved.
When to Worry About Naturalization Delays
Unfortunately, naturalization delays are a very common problem immigrants face. So, noticing a delay does not automatically mean that you need to respond.
It isn’t unusual for naturalization delays to go on for months before reaching a resolution. However, you should start to worry if your case continues pending for 12 months or more without making any progress. This is also the case if you notice that your case status hasn’t moved at all for six months or more.
Hire an Immigration Lawyer Today
Wondering why your citizenship application has been delayed? Contact us today at U.S. Immigration Law Counsel at 800-666-4996 to speak with an immigration attorney about your situation. We will deal with the government, so you don’t have to!
FAQ Section
Can I travel while waiting for naturalization?
Yes, but you must maintain continuous residence, and you will need to avoid long absences.
Will a pending traffic ticket delay my citizenship?
Minor violations, such as a traffic ticket, do not usually cause any issues with pending citizenship. However, this won’t be the case if you face any criminal charges or convictions.
Can I sue USCIS for unreasonable delays?
Yes, for extreme delays, you can file a mandamus lawsuit against the USCIS in federal court. But before taking this serious legal step, it is essential that you first consult with an immigration attorney.
