Honesty Matters: Protecting Your Future in the Immigration Process

In the immigration process, many people focus on one goal, getting approved quickly. But what’s often overlooked is that the choices made during your application can have long-term consequences. Taking shortcuts, leaving out information, or trusting the wrong advice might seem harmless at first, but it can lead to something devastating later: losing your legal status or even your citizenship.

Recently, this issue has made national headlines. The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has been increasing efforts to revoke citizenship (a process called denaturalization) for people who are found to have obtained it through false statements or omissions. These cases are rare, but they are serious and growing in number.

In June 2025, the DOJ announced a new focus on denaturalization cases involving “illegal procurement” or “willful misrepresentation.” This means if someone left out a key fact such as an arrest, an illegal entry, or using a false name their citizenship could be taken away, even years later.

A few recent cases show how real this risk is:

- Alaska case (AP News, June 2025): A man originally from South Africa, convicted of killing two women, now faces revocation of his U.S. citizenship because he failed to disclose his past crimes when applying for naturalization. Prosecutors said his answers on the application were false, and the DOJ is now asking a court to cancel his citizenship.

- National review (The Guardian, June 2025): The Department of Justice confirmed it is prioritizing reviews of naturalization applications that may include concealment of material facts not only for serious crimes, but for any case where the person failed to tell the full truth. Even something as small as leaving out an arrest or misrepresenting a prior immigration violation can trigger an investigation years later.

These examples highlight a key message: honesty and transparency are not optional in the immigration process. What you say (and don’t say) matters.

3 Ways to Protect Yourself and Your Family

1. Disclose everything.

Even if something seems minor, like an old arrest, a visa overstay, or a job you didn’t list, it’s better to disclose it now than to risk problems later. USCIS and the DOJ can access old records, and omissions are often viewed as misrepresentations.

2. Work with qualified professionals.

Avoid “immigration helpers,” notarios, or anyone who promises fast results for low fees. Only licensed immigration attorneys or accredited representatives can legally and ethically guide you through the process.

3. Think long-term, not short-term.

Getting a visa or green card quickly isn’t worth it if your future citizenship is at risk. Approach each step carefully and truthfully, your immigration record follows you for life.

The Bottom Line

Citizenship and lawful status in the United States are privileges built on trust. When applicants choose honesty, they protect not only their status but also their families and futures. The government has made it clear that cutting corners even unintentionally can have lasting consequences.

Take your time, tell the truth, and seek the right guidance. Integrity today is the best protection for your tomorrow.