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Few immigration setbacks feel more discouraging than a denied N-400 application for naturalization. After years of living in the United States as a lawful permanent resident, a denial can feel like the door to citizenship has been slammed shut. Fortunately, that denial is not necessarily the end of your journey. The N-336 appeal allows applicants to challenge the decision and present additional evidence.

Our Chicago immigration attorney, Shobhana Kasturi, can help you understand why your application was denied and how to build a strong appeal, which is essential for moving forward.

Common Reasons N-400 Applications Are Denied

Applicants must prove they have lived in the United States for a specific amount of time without extended absences. If you traveled abroad for long periods or lacked sufficient documentation of your residence, your application may have been denied for this reason.

Other common reasons for an N-400 application denial may include:

  • Inadequate Demonstration of Good Moral Character

Criminal history, failure to pay taxes, child support issues, or prior misrepresentations on immigration forms can all lead to concerns about moral character. In some cases, even old charges that were dismissed may raise questions during the review process.

  • English Language or Civics Test Failure

While applicants are allowed two chances to pass these tests, repeated failure to demonstrate language proficiency or knowledge of the U.S. government and history may result in a denial.

  • Discrepancies or Missing Information on the N-400

Errors, inconsistencies, or omissions on your N-400 application can raise red flags. USCIS may deny your case if it believes your answers were inaccurate or incomplete, even if unintentional.

  • Immigration Violations or Inadmissibility Issues

If USCIS determines you were inadmissible at the time you became a permanent resident or that you committed fraud or misrepresentation, your N-400 may be denied. This is particularly serious and often requires legal guidance.

How the N-336 Appeal Process Works

The N-336 form allows you to request a hearing on your denied naturalization application. You must file it within 30 days of the denial notice, so time is critical. Once submitted, USCIS will schedule a new interview and review your case again, this time with the added context and documentation you provide.

How to Strengthen Your N-336 Appeal

Work with our experienced immigration attorney who can:

  • Analyze the denial letter line by line to identify precisely what needs to be addressed.
  • Help you collect new or additional documentation to support your eligibility.
  • Draft legal arguments that explain and clarify previous issues.
  • Prepare you for the new interview so you are ready to clearly and confidently respond.

The appeal process is your opportunity to tell your story again, more thoroughly and with greater clarity. It is often your best chance to turn a denial into an approval.

Contact Our Experienced Naturalization Attorney in Illinois For Help

A denied N-400 application is painful, but it does not mean your dream of U.S. citizenship is over. With quick action and a carefully prepared N-336 appeal, you may still achieve naturalization and the security that comes with it.

At Kasturi Law, our immigration attorney helps individuals across Illinois, including those in Arlington Heights, Aurora, Champaign, Chicago, Naperville, Schaumburg, and surrounding cities, overcome naturalization setbacks. You can meet with us in person, by phone, or through Zoom, and schedule a 30-minute or 60-minute consultation directly through our online calendar.

Let us help you reclaim your path to citizenship with strength and support.