Would you like to become a citizen of the United States? Many immigrants come to the United States with this dream in mind. If you are ready to make your dream a reality there are some things you need to know before you make your application for naturalization. Applications for naturalization can be denied for a few reasons, here is a look at the most common ones.

Unpaid Taxes

If the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) finds out that you owe taxes to the Internal revenue Service (IRS) your citizenship application will be denied. If you can show that you are making an effort to pay off your taxes by entering into a payment plan with the IRS you may be eligible for naturalization. Circumstances of your payment plan will also be looked at. If you made an effort to get a payment plan on your own it will look better on your part. If you have tax payment issues it is best to call the IRS and try to come to a resolution as quickly as possible.

Delinquency in Child Support Payments 

If you are a parent you will be required to show that you can support your small children who do not live with you. If you were ordered to pay child support then you must provide evidence that you have been compliant with the order. If it is found that you are delinquent in your child support payments you can be denied citizenship. However, if you can explain why you are currently behind or are unable to make your child support payments you may still be eligible for citizenship. 

Your Moral Conduct

The United States wants citizens that will uphold the laws of the country. Having a criminal record can prevent you from becoming a citizen. Applicants who have been convicted of murder or an aggravated felony will be barred from naturalization. Lying on your application for naturalization is also grounds for your citizenship to be denied. If you are found lying to gain immigration benefits, then you may be permanently barred from becoming a citizen of the United States.

Many immigrants come to the United States with the dream of becoming a citizen. This dream can be realized by ensuring that you uphold all the laws and ideals of the country. Get an immigration attorney to assist you with the filing process if you foresee that you will have legal issues with your application for naturalization.