Can a criminal record prevent me from becoming a US citizen?

[infurm_tam]

I am a green card holder for more than 10yrs. But 4 yrs ago I was convicted, felony, assault and battery. I read the information on what crimes can burn you completely from being a US citizen and one of them was Aggrevated Assault and Battery, which is different from my charges which was just Assault and Battery. I would like to apply for citizenship but before I do so, i would like to know if my above listed conviction falls in the category of Crimes that can burn you completely. Thank you
-Infurm_tam

 

[brb2]

This is a forum made up of users who are like you and themselves naturalizing. For issues such as yours, where even your green card could be in jeopardy, it is best to consult a professional lawyer specializing in immigration and criminal matters. That is not to say you may not receive annecdotal feedback but remember that there is a wide variation in the way USCIS officers may take action in different parts of the US.

I am a green card holder for more than 10yrs. But 4 yrs ago I was convicted, felony, assault and battery. I read the information on what crimes can burn you completely from being a US citizen and one of them was Aggrevated Assault and Battery, which is different from my charges which was just Assault and Battery. I would like to apply for citizenship but before I do so, i would like to know if my above listed conviction falls in the category of Crimes that can burn you completely. Thank you
-Infurm_tam

 

[Triple Citizen]

I totally agree with BRB2. Your situation is beyond the "help/advice" this forum can offer. Forget citizenship, your PR itself may be at risk here. Get a competent immigration lawyer on your case. It will be money well spent.

I would like to apply for citizenship but before I do so, i would like to know if my above listed conviction falls in the category of Crimes that can burn you completely.

 

[warlord]

To put it simply you can be denied for your citizenship for lots of reasons. Felonies are one they can deny you. Does this mean it will be denied? No, it just means that it is a possibility. So yes take caution on applying...

 

[boatbod]

I don't know the specifics of whether felony assault is considered an excludable offense, but I do know you don't stand any chance of naturalization while conviction falls inside the 5 year good moral behavior window.

You definitely need to consult an immigration lawyer who has experience dealing with criminal convictions and deportation. Don't even think of doing anything that might stir the sleeping USCIS/ICE giant until you know where you stand.