Attention Naturalized U.S. Citizens: Why You Could Be “Deported” and What You Should Do
You’ve earned your U.S. citizenship, but recent policy changes mean that citizenship is no longer a guarantee of permanent protection. Here’s what’s happening, why it matters, and how to stay ahead.
What’s New?
The memo released from Trump’s Executive Order 14,173, Ending Illegal Discrimination and Restoring Merit-Based Opportunity, from the DOJ’s Civil Division, outlines the new priorities for denaturalization. It emphasizes cases involving:
National security threats (e.g., terrorism, espionage, war crimes)
Violent crimes, gang/cartel activity
Major fraud, especially COVID-era scams and healthcare fraud
Material misrepresentation on naturalization forms (e.g., undisclosed prior convictions)
BUT, the memo also adds a catch–all clause: The DOJ may pursue denaturalization in “any case deemed sufficiently important.” That final line is what has civil rights groups and immigration advocates worried as it clearly opens the door to “selective enforcement,” where political pressure or public profile could influence who gets targeted.
Denaturalization is on the rise: The Department of Justice memo directs their attorneys to prioritize denaturalization cases. Under this civil process, the government may revoke citizenship from naturalized individuals based on lower burdens of proof than criminal cases.
Broad, concerning definitions: Allegations of “bad moral character,” including alleged gang ties or even making alleged “false” statements during the naturalization process, may now be used to target more naturalized citizens
Mistaken detentions of U.S. citizens:Several U.S.-born citizens have been detained due to administrative errors or profiling, underscoring the reality that even American-born individuals can be swept up in aggressive enforcement.
Why This Matters Now: You can be stripped of citizenship and deported. Natural-born citizens enjoy constitutional protection, but naturalized citizens have less protection from this new denaturalization measure.
Due process worries:Denaturalization and detention may occur under civil rules, with fewer procedural safeguards, sometimes even without appointed counsel.
Targeted enforcement: The focus of the current policy emphasizes enforcement over rights, signaling a broader shift in immigration control.
What You Can Do:Review your naturalization application, verifying that every last detail of your application, employment history, travel, criminal record, etc., was fully and accurately disclosed.
Know the warning signs:ICE or DOJ interest alone doesn’t guarantee denaturalization. But it's wise to contact counsel immediately if contacted.
Stay vigilant with reminders:Keep all documentation, naturalization certificate, green card history, passports, travel and court notices, safely and accessibly filed.
Have a trusted advocate:A qualified immigration attorney can provide proactive monitoring and swift representation.
Join community support:Many immigrant rights groups are actively monitoring and responding to these new policies. Staying engaged can offer both community aid and collective advocacy.
Final Word
Denaturalization may be rare, albeit increasing. So never take citizenship lightly as you should now be cognizant of this administration’s evolving enforcement. If you are a naturalized citizen, now is the time to be audit‑ready.
If you or someone you know is approached by federal authorities regarding citizenship, don’t wait!!!! Contact our office right away at (817) 917-8121 or legal@danawhitefamilylaw.com
Stay safe and stay informed. You deserve the peace of mind that comes from knowing your status is secure, and that you have advocates at every step.
