Don’t Let A DUI Derail Your Citizenship Goals

Do you want to become a citizen… but you have a DUI? If you want to be naturalized and become a United States citizen, but you have a DUI arrest in your background, don’t abandon your American Dream. Non-citizens who are convicted of a single misdemeanor DUI in most cases will not face a serious immigration consequence. A Driving Under the Influence arrest is not one of the crimes that can disqualify you for citizenship. Still, it can hurt your ability to prove you have good moral character, which is a qualification for naturalization.

Qualifications for Citizenship: Good Moral Character

Naturalization is when a person voluntarily applies to become a permanent U.S. citizen. Good moral character is a requirement for citizenship and is considered by immigration officers for citizenship, a green card and other immigration applications. If you have a single DUI arrest but meet the other qualifications for naturalization, you may be able to demonstrate your do have good moral character:

• You have a steady job and you pay your taxes.
• You’re a volunteer for a non-profit community organization.
• You attend a church or other religious organization.
• You pay child support or support family members.

Work With An Immigration Attorney

Consult an immigration attorney about your case and your immigration goals. An experienced immigration attorney can advise you on your options to qualify for citizenship despite your DUI. They will advise you not to lie about or ignore your DUI on your N-400 application – lying to get immigration benefits is an automatic denial.

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