Evanston, IL immigration attorney Alen Takhsh talks about whether or not you can apply for citizenship if you have a criminal record. He states that individuals with a criminal record may or may not be eligible to apply for U.S. citizenship, depending on the severity and nature of their offenses. Generally, the more serious or complex the criminal background, the less likely it is that an applicant will qualify.

For instance, if someone has been convicted of an aggravated felony, eligibility for citizenship is highly unlikely. In fact, filing under such circumstances could even expose the applicant to the risk—though not certainty—of being placed in removal proceedings.

By contrast, if an applicant has a conviction for a DUI or DWI, his general advice is to wait until the statutory period has elapsed—typically five years—before considering filing. Minor traffic violations, on the other hand, usually do not carry significant weight in the naturalization process.

Because the consequences can be severe and the risks substantial, he strongly encourages individuals with any criminal history to consult with an experienced immigration professional before submitting an application for citizenship. This ensures that their eligibility and potential risks are properly assessed.