What Is Denaturalization?
Denaturalization is the legal process by which the U.S. government revokes citizenship from individuals who obtained it through naturalization. Unlike deportation, which applies to noncitizens, denaturalization strips away the legal identity of someone who has already become a U.S. citizen—often years or decades earlier.
Historically, denaturalization was rare, used primarily in extreme cases such as war crimes or fraud. However, recent years have seen an increase in denaturalization investigations—raising concerns about fairness, due process, and the long-term stability of citizenship in America.
Why Is Denaturalization Happening More Often?
A specialized unit known as the Denaturalization Section (DENAT) was created within the U.S. Department of Justice in 2020 to pursue these cases more aggressively. It reviews old naturalization records and targets individuals accused of:
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Committing fraud during the naturalization process
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Hiding past criminal activity or immigration violations
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Making misstatements—sometimes unintentional—on their applications
Even minor or decades-old errors can lead to legal action, threatening someone’s citizenship status.
What Are the Consequences?
The consequences of denaturalization are severe:
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Loss of citizenship
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Deportation to a country that may no longer feel like home
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Family separation, especially if children or spouses are U.S. citizens
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Loss of rights like voting, working, receiving benefits, or traveling with a U.S. passport
For many, the revocation of citizenship brings profound fear, uncertainty, and emotional distress.
Who Is Being Targeted?
Many denaturalization cases involve individuals who have:
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Lived in the U.S. for decades
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Built families and careers here
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Made honest mistakes during a complex legal process
Some reports suggest that Muslim immigrants and communities of color are disproportionately targeted, raising serious concerns about racial and religious bias.
What You Can Do
If you are a naturalized citizen, here are steps you can take:
✅ Know Your Rights – Consult a trusted immigration attorney if you receive communication from USCIS or ICE.
✅ Keep Your Records – Save all documents related to your immigration journey, including your naturalization certificate and application.
✅ Stay Informed – Denaturalization law and policy are evolving. Follow reliable sources and advocacy organizations.
✅ Advocate for Change – Contact your representatives to support immigration reform and protections for naturalized citizens.
Why It Matters
Citizenship should be a permanent and secure status, not something that can be revisited years later due to paperwork errors. Denaturalization undermines the very foundation of equality, security, and inclusion that citizenship promises.
Naturalized Americans are as American as anyone born on U.S. soil. We must ensure they are treated that way under the law.
Learn more:
Read the full fact sheet by the National Immigration Forum
Have questions about denaturalization or your rights? Consult a licensed immigration attorney
Source: National Immigration Forum – Denaturalization Fact Sheet