Summary
U.S. naturalization ceremonies have faced disruptions, with some citizenship applicants being removed from ceremonies or experiencing delays. This is due to tightened immigration policies after a security incident involving an Afghan refugee.
Key Facts
- Some applicants ready for U.S. citizenship have been told they cannot participate in their naturalization ceremonies.
- This action follows a security incident involving an Afghan refugee accused of a shooting.
- The Trump administration halted immigration processes for individuals from 19 countries deemed high-risk.
- Across cities like Boston and Houston, applicants report delays, even when they completed all steps for citizenship.
- Raouf Vafaei, an Iranian immigrant, had his ceremony canceled despite following all required steps.
- According to a former USCIS official, the number of oath ceremonies has decreased significantly.
- Federal law requires a decision on citizenship applications within 120 days, but no such rule exists for scheduling oath ceremonies.
