For many, the naturalization ceremony feels like the finish line—a moment of permanent security and belonging. However, it is important to understand that while U.S. citizenship is robust, it is not entirely indestructible for those who obtained it through naturalization. In 2026, federal agencies like USCIS and the Department of Justice (DOJ) continue to actively review cases where they believe citizenship was not lawfully obtained.
The legal process of taking away citizenship is known as denaturalization. It is a serious federal court procedure that is relatively rare, but it is a tool the government uses to maintain the integrity of the immigration system. Understanding the specific grounds for this process is essential for every naturalized citizen, as it highlights the ongoing importance of “Good Moral Character” and the absolute necessity of honesty during the application phase.
Grounds for denaturalization
The most common reason for denaturalization is the “concealment of a material fact” or “willful misrepresentation” during the naturalization process. This means that if an applicant lied or hid important information on their Form N-400 or during their interview—and that information would have led to a denial—the government can later move to revoke their status. As of May 2026, the DOJ has filed several high-profile actions against individuals who allegedly concealed serious criminal histories or ties to extremist groups that would have disqualified them from citizenship.
Another ground is “illegal procurement,” which occurs if the person was simply not eligible for citizenship at the time they took the oath, even if there wasn’t a deliberate lie. For example, if a person had a prior undisclosed conviction that prevented them from meeting the “Good Moral Character” requirement during the statutory period, their citizenship was technically procured illegally. In 2026, federal authorities are using advanced data sharing between agencies to identify these discrepancies, even decades after the citizenship was granted.
See our practice areas and learn how we can assist you.
National security and membership in prohibited groups
Citizenship can be removed if a person has joined any organization, including a terrorist organization and/or totalitarian party that is deemed to be subversive by the United States federal government within 5 years of being granted citizenship. If a person becomes associated with one of these organizations, it is considered evidence that at the time the person took their oath of citizenship, they were not properly “attached to the principles of the Constitution.” The fact that promises made during the naturalization ceremony were to uphold and support the laws of the United States must be kept in the following 5 years.
In addition, naturalization due to military service has additional conditional requirements. For example, if an individual has gained citizenship based on their participation in the U.S. Military, and then was subsequently discharged under “other than honorable” circumstances before completing five years of service, the government may revoke their citizenship. The revocation of their citizenship indicates that, according to the government, the benefit of expedited citizenship is contingent upon having served honorably, and there continues to be a commitment to the country’s principles.
You might be interested in: Citizenship through marriage: Requirements and timeline
The role of professional legal defense
The burden of establishing that someone is not entitled to be a United States citizen lies with the federal government. The federal government must show a “clear and convincing” case in order to successfully revoke the right of someone to enter or remain in the United States. Because denaturalization cases are heard in a federal court, you have the right to a full defense to the charges against you, including presenting evidence and appealing any negative determinations made by the court.
If you are ever confronted with accusations concerning your prior application for naturalization, it is critical to have an experienced immigration attorney who can assist you in appealing to the United States government. An attorney can help you gather and analyze your files and make sure your rights are preserved.
If you found our article useful, please share it with someone who might need it. And don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, as well as check out all our services at jamesimmigrationlaw.com.