INS Advises on Naturalization Denials Policy Regarding Address Changes

Mar 23 1999

Memorandum For Regional Directors
Service Center Directors

From: Michael A. Pearson
Executive Associate Commissioner
Office of Field Operations

Subject: Naturalization (N-400) Denials Policy Regarding Address Changes

Over the last number of months, naturalization denials have increased in nearly every office. As a result, many congressional offices, community groups, and members of the media have contacted INS Headquarters for an explanation. In particular, they raise the issue of applicants denied for failure to appear at a fingerprint appointment, interview, or ceremony who may not have received a notice because INS did not have the applicant's current address.

The Immigration Services Division (HQISD) is in the process of developing both a long-term solution to the problem, centralized address changes through a toll-free 1-800 number, and uniform procedural guidance for offices to follow for individual applicants who claim to have been denied in error.

In the interim, for applicants who present a good faith claim to have notified the Service of an address change and that their application was denied in error, offices and service centers are instructed to reopen the application on service motion.

Additional guidance outlining procedures for any data collection necessary will follow under separate cover.