Should I Apply for Naturalization in 2025 (Under the Trump Administration)?

Given the evolving enforcement priorities and extreme immigration policy shifts under the second Trump administration, many legal permanent residents are wondering whether they should even file for Naturalization in these unprecedented times. While each applicant’s background is unique, the enduring advantages of U.S. citizenship (i.e., permanent protection from deportation, accelerated family sponsorship, voting rights, eligibility for federal government employment, and travel benefits associated with possessing a U.S. passport) often outweigh the risks.

Despite the challenges that many may face, if you are eligible to naturalize, you should not miss the opportunity to apply. However, it’s important to note that those with more complicated situations should seek trusted legal advice before filing the N-400 application.

A Second Trump Term: Why Timing Matters

President Trump’s return to the White House has already seen a flurry of executive actions aimed at tightening immigration policies and expediting the removal of non-citizens. In this context, applying for naturalization can be viewed as an insurance policy, i.e., becoming a citizen before potential rule changes or heightened scrutiny. Those who delay may find themselves subject to future policies that could slow processing or impose new barriers. Until there is evidence that the immigration system is completely shutdown, you should not wait for that day to come before you decide to apply.

Below is a breakdown of the many benefits of becoming a U.S. Citizen:

Permanent Protection from Deportation

Becoming a U.S. citizen provides security: once naturalized, you cannot be placed in removal proceedings or deported, regardless of later criminal charges or convictions. This safeguard is especially critical under this current administration, which is prioritizing immigration enforcement over promoting the filing of immigration benefit applications. Although the immigration laws provide for de-naturalization procedures, they are reserved for individuals who obtained citizenship or their initial green card, through fraudulent means, which is an incredibly low-number of naturalized citizens.

Faster Immigration Petition Processing (Plus, Petitioning for Parents)

As a naturalized citizen, you gain access to the “immediate relatives” category for immigration benefits, which includes, spouses, unmarried children under 21, and parents, who are all exempt from visa wait times. Also, as you may already be aware, green card holders cannot petition for their parents at all and often face significant visa wait times for the family members that they are permitted to petition for. As a U.S. citizen, when you file a petition for your immediate relatives, you can expect faster processing in general.

Voting in Federal Elections + More

Only U.S. citizens may vote in federal elections, and most states limit voting in state and local contests to citizens as well. By naturalizing, you gain the power to vote for presidential and congressional candidates of your choice. Beyond voting, U.S. citizens can serve on juries, run for public office, and participate fully in our democratic process.

Eligibility for Civil Service Federal Employment

If you aspire to work in government service, naturalization opens doors to a career working for the federal government. You will be able to apply for jobs with the many federal agencies, departments, initiatives and more.

Travel Freedom with a U.S. Passport

A U.S. passport ranks among the world’s most powerful, offering visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 183 countries as of 2025. U.S. Citizens also receive full consular protection abroad and can enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for real-time safety alerts. Unlike green-card holders, who risk questioning or even removal at the border, citizens face virtually no risk of losing status when traveling internationally.

Relief from Green Card Renewals, Green Card Restrictions and Ongoing USCIS Filings

Naturalized citizens no longer need to file Form I-90 every ten years or worry about residency-maintaining petitions. Upon becoming a U.S. citizen, you don’t have to file anything with USCIS and can avoid the ever changing filing fees and procedures associated with renewing immigration benefits. Furthermore, once you become a U.S. citizen, you no longer have to worry about how much time you’re spending outside the United States or whether you are engaging in activities that could affect your status. Likewise, becoming a U.S. citizen can relieve the stress of being concerned generally about your status.

Balancing Risks: When to Proceed with Caution

Naturalization is not risk-free for everyone. Applicants with:

Criminal convictions or immigration violations may trigger additional scrutiny, RFEs, or even removal referrals during naturalization adjudication.
Extended absences abroad could jeopardize continuous residency requirements, leading to denials.
Incomplete documentation risk delays or rejection, which can result in wasted time and money.

Why Legal Guidance Is Essential

Because each applicant’s history is unique, consulting an experienced immigration attorney is critical. Legal counsel can:

Assess Eligibility: Identify potential risks before you file.
Prepare a Complete Application: Reduce RFEs and avoid denials by ensuring all evidence is accurate and well-organized.
Advocate on Your Behalf: Represent you at interviews or in appeals if complications emerge.

How We Can Help

At Carbone Law, we are experienced in assisting clients with N-400, naturalization petitions. We can help you assess your situation and guide you through any issues related to the naturalization process. If you are interested in filing to become a U.S. citizen, please do not hesitate to give us a call at (212) 547-8857 or schedule a consultation online and we'd be happy to work with you. Our experienced immigration attorneys are here to provide the advice you need. Contact us today and take the next step towards applying for your citizenship!

Disclaimer: This blog post and similar posts are not to be considered as providing legal advice. The discussion here is meant for educational and informational purposes only and shall not create an attorney-client relationship with the readers of this content.