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Call Us Today

630-392-8101 | 630-392-8101
info@kasturilaw.com

Applying for U.S. citizenship can feel like the culmination of a long journey. Many applicants expect that once they pass their interview and meet all requirements, naturalization will follow quickly. Yet recent trends show an increase in stalled cases, unexpected policy reviews, and long periods of silence, during which no one can say when a decision will arrive.

These delays are not only inconvenient. They can disrupt travel plans, career decisions, family decisions, and the emotional closure that comes with becoming a U.S. citizen. Understanding why naturalization cases get held up, and how to navigate that uncertainty, helps applicants stay grounded during a process that no longer follows predictable timelines.

Citizenship

Why Naturalization Cases Get Put on Hold

Several issues can put citizenship applications in limbo. Some are procedural, while others stem from policy changes or internal U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) priorities.

  • Background or Security Reviews Triggered After the Interview

Even if your interview goes smoothly, USCIS may need additional time to complete background or security checks. If a name match or screening requires more investigation, your case may be delayed for weeks or months.

  • Administrative or Internal Policy Reviews

When USCIS updates internal procedures or begins enforcing specific eligibility standards more aggressively, pending applications may be subject to new scrutiny. Issues related to good moral character, prior immigration history, or community checks can all trigger additional review.

  • Local USCIS Backlogs and Staffing Shortages

Many field offices are experiencing heavy workloads. Even once background checks are complete, applications may wait in a queue before an officer can finalize the decision or schedule the oath ceremony.

  • Requests for Follow-Up Information or Missing Documents

If USCIS needs more evidence or clarification after the interview, the case may pause until additional information is received and reviewed. Sometimes a small missing detail is enough to halt progress.

  • Uncertainty Caused by Shifting Immigration Policies

When the government reinterprets or tightens an eligibility requirement, USCIS officers may be instructed to reexamine certain cases more carefully. These policy shifts create unpredictability, especially for applicants with complex histories or old records.

What Applicants Often Misunderstand About the Waiting Period

Once the naturalization interview is complete, many people assume approval is imminent. In reality, the post-interview stage can be the most unpredictable part of the process.

Common misconceptions include:

  • Believing a passed civics and English test guarantees immediate approval.
  • Assuming USCIS must issue a decision within a fixed number of days.
  • Thinking the oath ceremony will be scheduled automatically.
  • Not realizing background checks can restart or expand after the interview.

This “silent” waiting period can be stressful, especially when applicants have travel plans, job opportunities, or family needs that depend on citizenship.

How Our Immigration Attorney Can Help When Naturalization Is Delayed

Although no attorney can force USCIS to move faster, legal support can make a significant difference in navigating long or unexplained delays.

  • Identifying Early Warning Signs of a Stalled Case

Attorneys track your timeline, review your file, and evaluate whether anything in your history could be prompting a deeper review.

  • Submitting Formal Case Inquiries or Escalation Requests

If your application is pending well beyond your field office’s typical timeline, an attorney can submit inquiries, escalate the matter, or request supervisory review when appropriate.

  • Preparing Supplemental Evidence if Needed

If delays are tied to eligibility concerns, an attorney can help gather additional documentation that clarifies your background or strengthens your case.

  • Advising on Travel, Employment, and Status During Delays

Applicants often have questions about international travel, renewals, or work-related deadlines. An attorney ensures you do not unintentionally jeopardize your pending application.

  • Exploring Legal Remedies if Delay Becomes Unreasonable

In certain situations, attorneys may discuss whether litigation is appropriate to compel a decision when USCIS has taken an excessive amount of time.

The New Reality: Citizenship Timelines Are Less Predictable

Today’s naturalization process does not operate on a consistent schedule. While many applicants still move from interview to approval without disruption, others face months or even years of uncertainty due to policy shifts, administrative reviews, and case backlogs.

If your application is taking longer than expected, it does not necessarily mean anything is wrong. It does mean you should stay alert, keep records up to date, and seek guidance if silence stretches longer than seems reasonable.

Speak With Our Illinois Immigration Attorney About Your Naturalization Delay

If your citizenship application is stuck or you are unsure why USCIS has not issued a decision, Kasturi Law can review your case and help you understand your options. Our Chicago immigration attorneys provide guidance, communication support, and strategic planning to keep your path forward as clear as possible.

Contact Kasturi Law today to schedule a 30-minute or 60-minute consultation. We are here to help you navigate delays and move closer to completing your journey toward U.S. citizenship, in person, over the phone, or via a Zoom session. Our law firm represents clients throughout Illinois, including Arlington Heights, Aurora, Champaign, Naperville, Schaumburg, and surrounding cities.