Denaturalization Enforcement Escalates: What Naturalized Citizens Must Know in 2025

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has formally prioritized denaturalization—the process of revoking U.S. citizenship obtained through naturalization—for individuals involved in criminal activity or fraud. On June 11, 2025, a DOJ memo outlined a clear directive: federal prosecutors are instructed to actively pursue denaturalization cases where naturalization was obtained through fraud, material misrepresentation, or if the individual poses a national security threat. This marks a significant development in immigration enforcement and raises concerns for naturalized U.S. citizens nationwide (Source: NPR).

What Does This Mean for Naturalized Citizens?

Naturalized citizens—those who have legally obtained U.S. citizenship after immigrating—should understand that their citizenship, while carrying all the same rights as native-born Americans, can still be challenged under specific circumstances. The new DOJ directive highlights several key areas of focus for denaturalization, including:

• Fraud or concealment of material facts during the naturalization process

• Serious criminal convictions, including violent crimes and child exploitation

• National security concerns, such as terrorism or espionage

• Financial or immigration fraud connected to the naturalization application

It is important to note that denaturalization is not a new legal tool. However, this new enforcement memo signals a broader, more aggressive use of it. Historical precedent shows denaturalization has typically been used in extreme cases, such as Nazi war criminals or individuals involved in terrorism. The concern now is that this expanded focus could result in naturalized citizens facing denaturalization for far less severe offenses, including minor omissions on immigration paperwork.

A Return to Trump-Era Immigration Tactics

The increased focus on denaturalization aligns with immigration policies from former President Trump’s administration, where efforts were made to identify and prosecute naturalized citizens suspected of fraud or criminal activity. Programs like Operation Janus and Operation Second Look reviewed thousands of naturalization files, leading to hundreds of investigations and prosecutions.

Legal experts warn that the renewed emphasis on denaturalization could disproportionately affect immigrant communities. The memo’s language emphasizes protecting the integrity of the immigration system, but vague terms such as “good moral character” and “material misrepresentation” leave room for interpretation and potential misuse.

What Are the Risks?

Once citizenship is revoked, individuals may face:

• Deportation to their country of origin

• Loss of benefits and protections afforded to U.S. citizens

• Permanent separation from family members

• Damage to professional and personal reputations

In civil denaturalization proceedings, individuals do not have the same protections as in criminal cases. The government bears a lower burden of proof, and there is no guarantee of court-appointed legal counsel.

Looking Ahead with Caution and Confidence

The DOJ’s expanded denaturalization directive serves as a reminder that vigilance is essential for all naturalized U.S. citizens. However, with the right legal team, you can face these challenges with confidence. Spar & Bernstein remains committed to safeguarding immigrant communities and protecting the rights of those who call America home.

If you have concerns about your naturalization history, past criminal record, or have received notice of a denaturalization investigation, do not delay. Contact our office today for a confidential consultation. We are here to help you secure your future and defend your citizenship.

How Spar & Bernstein Can Help

At Spar & Bernstein, we understand how unsettling these developments can be for naturalized citizens and their families. Our experienced immigration attorneys are prepared to defend your rights, offering comprehensive legal services, including:

• Detailed reviews of your naturalization application to identify potential vulnerabilities

• Proactive legal strategies to mitigate risks of denaturalization

• Aggressive defense in civil denaturalization proceedings

• Assistance with appeals and constitutional challenges if necessary

Our firm has spent decades advocating for immigrants, fighting unjust policies, and ensuring due process is upheld in every case. We believe that your hard-earned citizenship deserves full protection under the law.