Can U.S. Citizenship Be Revoked? Understanding Revocation and Denaturalization

By swipecreatif.agency/ April 3, 2025

U.S. citizenship is a highly valued legal status that offers powerful protections and rights. However, many people are surprised to learn that U.S. citizenship can, in some cases, be revoked. While it is rare and legally complex, both voluntary renunciation and involuntary revocation—known as denaturalization—are possible under U.S. law.

At Alabbassi Law Office, we represent clients in complex citizenship matters, including defending against denaturalization and advising those who are considering renouncing their citizenship.

1. Voluntary Renunciation of U.S. Citizenship

Any U.S. citizen—whether by birth or naturalization—has the legal right to voluntarily give up their U.S. citizenship. This is known as renunciation, and it must be done formally and intentionally.

Requirements for Renunciation:

• You must appear in person at a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad.

• You must sign an oath of renunciation.

• The act must be voluntary and done with full understanding of the consequences.

• You cannot renounce citizenship to avoid taxes or legal obligations.

Important: Once renounced, citizenship cannot be reclaimed unless reapplying for immigration status from scratch.

Consequences of Renunciation:

• Loss of right to reside in the U.S.

• Loss of U.S. passport and federal benefits

• Possible immigration restrictions if wishing to return

• Potential tax and financial reporting obligations under FATCA and Exit Tax rules

2. Involuntary Revocation (Denaturalization)

For naturalized citizens (those who obtained citizenship through the naturalization process), the U.S. government can revoke citizenship through a process called denaturalization—but only in specific and extreme cases.

Grounds for Denaturalization:

1. Fraud or misrepresentation during the naturalization process

   • Concealing criminal history

   • Falsifying identity or immigration records

   • Lying about affiliations (e.g., terrorist or Nazi organizations)

2. Membership in subversive or hostile groups within 5 years of naturalization

3. Refusal to testify before Congress in matters of national security (rare)

4. Military desertion or dishonorable discharge, if naturalization was granted based on military service

How Denaturalization Happens:

• The U.S. Department of Justice files a civil lawsuit in federal court.

• The government must prove its case with clear and convincing evidence.

• If successful, the person loses U.S. citizenship and may face removal (deportation).

Can U.S.-Born Citizens Lose Citizenship?

Involuntary revocation only applies to naturalized citizens—not those born in the U.S. However, U.S.-born citizens can voluntarily renounce their citizenship or may lose it if acquired through fraud by a parent and later contested. 

To be US Citizen by birth US must have jurisdiction over you

Defending Against Denaturalization

If the U.S. government initiates denaturalization proceedings against you, it is crucial to seek legal counsel immediately. These cases are serious and may lead not only to loss of citizenship but also to deportation and permanent bars to reentry.

At Alabbassi Law Office, we defend clients in:

• Fraud investigations tied to naturalization

• Complex asylum or marriage-based denaturalization claims

• Federal denaturalization proceedings

• Related immigration removal or deportation actions

Final Thoughts

While revocation of U.S. citizenship is rare, it is real—and it carries life-altering consequences. Whether you’re facing a denaturalization claim or considering voluntary renunciation, the legal steps are serious and irreversible.

If you have concerns about your citizenship status or are being investigated by immigration authorities, contact Alabbassi Law Office today at 832-304-7866 or email [email protected] for a confidential consultation.