What is the Denaturalization Process?
In the United States, denaturalization is the official process of revoking the citizenship of a foreign-born individual. In 2025, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) announced that it was going to start prioritizing denaturalization cases moving forward. It is now working with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and other agencies to identify those who may be targets of denaturalization.
If you or someone you love has been targeted, it is critical to understand what will happen in the weeks and months to come. Below, our Atlanta immigration lawyer explains more about the process.
The Investigation
If the government believes you are eligible for denaturalization, they will conduct an investigation. These investigations can result from specific allegations against you, an ICE raid, or a systemic review of the government’s records. Regardless of the reason for the investigation, it is important to know that if the government has already initiated one, it already believes there is evidence against you.
Filing the Lawsuit
The process to revoke someone’s citizenship officially begins when the government files a civil denaturalization lawsuit. The lawsuit is not filed in immigration court but instead, the federal district court. Within the lawsuit the government will state the grounds for denaturalization and the court to issue an order to revoke your American citizenship.
Responding to the Lawsuit
You have the right to respond to the government’s lawsuit against you, but you must act quickly. Typically, you have just 60 days. If you do not file within that time, the judge may issue a revocation order without hearing your side of the case. If you have not already at this point, it is critical to contact an Atlanta immigration lawyer who can help prepare your response and guide you through the rest of the process.
Presenting the Case in Court
Your lawyer will ask the government for the evidence they have against you to determine what defenses are available to help you avoid denaturalization. As your case proceeds, your lawyer as well as the Justice Department, may file a number of different motions and the judge may schedule different hearings to address specific parts of your case.
The Judge’s Decision
After the district court judge has considered all of the evidence presented by your lawyer and the DOJ, they will make a decision regarding your denaturalization. If they determine that the revocation is warranted, they will issue an order to revoke your citizenship. If the judge determines there is not enough evidence against you, they will dismiss the lawsuit and you will retain your citizenship.
Our Immigration Lawyer in Atlanta Can Help You Through the Process
Whether you are facing denaturalization, need to file an appeal, or are facing another issue that could impact your status, our Atlanta immigration lawyer can help. To request a consultation to discuss your case, please contact Shirazi Immigration Law, Inc. today at 404-523-3611. We are proud to serve clients in Dalton, Moultrie, and Atlanta, GA as well as Chattanooga, TN. Call us today and get the legal help you need.
Source:
justice.gov/civil/media/1404046/dl?inline
