SoCal Immigration Services | Immigration Document Preparation in Southern California

Quick Answer

Receiving a citizenship denial letter is devastating, but it is not the end of your journey. Glendale residents, including members of the Armenian and Arab communities, have legal options to challenge an N-400 naturalization denial. Whether your application was denied for English proficiency, civics test failure, good moral character issues, or documentation problems, you have the right to request a hearing and present your case again.

Reviewed for accuracy by

Maria Santos

DOJ Accredited Representative • 15+ years experience

Common Reasons for Citizenship Denial

Understanding why USCIS denied your N-400 application is the first step toward a successful appeal. The most common denial reasons for Glendale applicants include:

•Failure to pass the English language test (reading, writing, or speaking components)
•Failure to pass the U.S. civics test after two attempts
•Good moral character issues: criminal history, tax problems, or failure to disclose arrests
•Continuous residence or physical presence requirement not met
•Abandonment of permanent residence due to extended travel abroad
•Failure to provide requested documents or evidence within the deadline
•Inconsistencies between your N-400 application and immigration records
•Selective Service registration failure for male applicants ages 18-25
•Child support arrears or failure to file tax returns
•Fraud or misrepresentation in any prior immigration filing

The N-336 Hearing Request: Your First Line of Defense

After receiving a denial, you have the right to file Form N-336, Request for a Hearing on a Decision in Naturalization Proceedings. This is an administrative review conducted by a different USCIS officer than the one who denied your application.

Key N-336 Details:
• You must file Form N-336 within 30 days of your denial notice
• The filing fee is $1,760 as of 2026 (fee waiver available for qualifying applicants)
• You can submit new evidence and documentation with your request
• A different USCIS officer will review your entire case from scratch
• You will attend a new hearing where you can address the reasons for denial
• The hearing officer has authority to approve your naturalization

Do not miss the 30-day deadline. If you fail to file N-336 within 30 days, you lose this administrative appeal right and must either reapply from the beginning or go directly to federal court.

Appeal Timeline: What to Expect

The citizenship denial appeal process follows a specific timeline. Glendale applicants should prepare for the following schedule:

1. Day 0: You receive the denial notice (Form N-14) in the mail
2. Days 1-30: File Form N-336 with USCIS within 30 calendar days
3. Months 1-3: USCIS acknowledges receipt and schedules your hearing
4. Months 3-6: Attend your N-336 hearing at the local USCIS field office
5. Within 180 days: USCIS issues a decision on your N-336 hearing
6. If denied again: You have 120 days to file a petition in federal district court

Total timeline from initial denial to final resolution: 6-18 months depending on the complexity of your case and whether federal court review is needed.

The Los Angeles USCIS field office that serves Glendale residents processes N-336 hearings on a rolling basis. Current wait times for hearing scheduling average 2-4 months.

Preparing for Your N-336 Hearing

Thorough preparation is the key to overturning your citizenship denial. Our team helps Glendale residents prepare in the following ways:

•Review the denial notice carefully to identify every stated reason for denial
•Gather new evidence that directly addresses each denial reason
•Organize all supporting documents with a clear index and tabs
•Practice the English language test if language was a factor in your denial
•Study the 100 civics questions and practice with mock tests if civics was an issue
•Obtain certified court records (dispositions, dismissals) if criminal history was cited
•Prepare tax transcripts and IRS records if tax issues were raised
•Draft a written statement explaining any inconsistencies in your application
•Compile character reference letters from community members, employers, or religious leaders
•Prepare a timeline of your physical presence and travel history if residence was questioned

Gathering New Evidence for Your Appeal

The N-336 hearing gives you the opportunity to present evidence that was not available or not included in your original application. Effective evidence strategies for Glendale applicants include:

•Updated police clearance letters showing no new arrests or convictions
•Court-certified disposition records proving charges were dismissed or reduced
•IRS tax return transcripts for all years at issue, plus proof of any payments made
•Selective Service registration confirmation or Status Information Letter
•Medical documentation if a disability affected your ability to meet requirements (N-648 Medical Certification)
•Employment verification letters demonstrating stable community ties
•Property records, lease agreements, or utility bills proving continuous residence
•Passport stamps and travel records with a detailed travel log
•English language school completion certificates or tutor attestation letters
•Sworn affidavits from witnesses who can attest to your good moral character

Legal Options After an N-336 Denial

If your N-336 hearing results in another denial, you still have legal options. Understanding the full range of remedies available to Glendale residents is important:

Federal District Court Review (8 U.S.C. Section 1421(c)):
• You have 120 days after the N-336 decision to file in federal court
• The court conducts a de novo review, meaning it examines your case independently
• A federal judge can order USCIS to grant your naturalization
• This option requires an immigration attorney and involves court filing fees
• Federal court cases in the Central District of California (serving Glendale) typically resolve within 6-12 months

Writ of Mandamus:
• If USCIS unreasonably delays your N-336 hearing beyond 120 days after filing, you can ask a federal court to compel USCIS to act
• This is not an appeal of the decision but a demand that USCIS process your case

Reapplying for Citizenship:
• You can file a new N-400 application at any time (unless barred by specific grounds)
• Address all prior denial reasons before reapplying
• A fresh application restarts the process from the beginning

Reapplying for Citizenship After Denial

For some Glendale residents, filing a new N-400 application is a better strategy than continuing an appeal. Consider reapplying when:

•Your denial was based on a fixable issue (failed English or civics test) that you have now addressed
•You have resolved the underlying problem (paid taxes, completed probation, registered for Selective Service)
•The 30-day N-336 deadline has passed and federal court is not practical
•Your circumstances have changed (additional years of continuous residence now meet requirements)
•The cost and time of federal litigation outweigh the benefits of a fresh application
•You have obtained new documentation that strengthens your case significantly

Why Glendale Residents Choose SoCal Immigration Services

Our team has extensive experience helping Glendale residents fight citizenship denials and achieve naturalization. We serve the Armenian and Arab communities with culturally sensitive support:

•Arabic-speaking staff who can explain the appeal process in your language
•Thorough review of your denial notice to identify the strongest grounds for appeal
•Complete N-336 petition preparation with organized evidence packages
•Mock interview and hearing preparation sessions
•English language and civics test tutoring referrals for Glendale residents
•Coordination with immigration attorneys for federal court cases when needed
•Experience with the Los Angeles USCIS field office procedures and officers
•Affordable consultation fees with transparent pricing and no hidden costs

FAQFrequently Asked Questions

Q:How long do I have to appeal my citizenship denial?

A: You have exactly 30 calendar days from the date on your denial notice to file Form N-336 with USCIS. If you miss this deadline, you lose your administrative appeal right. We recommend contacting us immediately after receiving a denial to ensure we meet the filing deadline.

Q:Can I take the English and civics tests again during my N-336 hearing?

A: Yes. If your denial was based on failure to pass the English language test or civics test, the N-336 hearing officer will administer the tests again. This is a fresh opportunity to pass. We help Glendale residents prepare with practice tests and study materials before the hearing.

Q:Will I be deported if my citizenship application is denied?

A: No. A citizenship denial does not affect your green card status. You remain a lawful permanent resident after denial. However, if the denial reveals issues such as fraud or criminal convictions, USCIS could potentially refer your case for further review. Consult with us to understand your specific situation.

Q:How much does it cost to file an N-336 appeal?

A: The USCIS filing fee for Form N-336 is $1,760 as of 2026. Fee waivers are available for applicants who meet income requirements. Our team can help you determine if you qualify for a fee waiver and assist with the waiver application.

Q:Can I get a fee waiver for my N-336 filing?

A: Yes. USCIS accepts fee waiver requests for Form N-336 based on financial need. You must demonstrate that you receive a means-tested government benefit, have a household income at or below 150% of the federal poverty level, or face financial hardship. We help Glendale residents prepare fee waiver requests.

Q:What if my denial was based on a criminal record?

A: Criminal history denials require careful analysis. Minor offenses may be overcome with evidence of rehabilitation and good moral character. Serious offenses may create permanent bars to citizenship. Our team reviews your criminal history, obtains certified court records, and determines whether your specific convictions can be overcome through the N-336 hearing or reapplication.

Disclaimer: This article provides general information about immigration services in Glendale and does not constitute legal advice. SoCal Immigration Services is a document preparation company, not a law firm. For legal advice specific to your situation, please consult with a licensed immigration attorney.

Published: February 10, 2026Last Updated: February 10, 2026

Denied Citizenship in Glendale? We Can Help You Fight Back.

Do not give up on your dream of U.S. citizenship. Our experienced team helps Glendale residents navigate the N-336 hearing process and build strong appeals. Contact us within 30 days of your denial to protect your rights.

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Citizenship Denial Appeal in Glendale: How to Fight Your N-400 Rejection