At Scott Legal, we are proud to share a successful resolution of a complex immigration case involving a man who, for decades, believed he was a U.S. citizen. Born in the United States to a foreign diplomat, our client lived his entire life under the assumption that he was a citizen by birthright. However, he was shocked to learn from the U.S. government that, due to his parent’s diplomatic status at the time of his birth, he had never actually acquired U.S. citizenship.
This unique legal situation—governed by U.S. immigration law—states that children born in the United States to foreign diplomats are not automatically granted citizenship. Nevertheless, there is a narrow pathway to permanent residency for such individuals, provided they have maintained continuous residence in the U.S. since birth.
Understanding the legal nuances and the emotional impact of this revelation, our team at Scott Legal, P.C. acted swiftly and strategically. We worked closely with our client to compile substantial documentation demonstrating his continuous physical presence in the United States, as well as his deep personal, professional, and community ties. This included evidence of longstanding employment, family relationships, tax filings, and educational records.
We also provided legal representation at his green card interview and ensured that all aspects of the case were meticulously presented. Ultimately, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) approved his green card petition, and—per standard procedure in these rare cases—backdated his permanent resident status to his date of birth. This immediate backdating made our client eligible to apply for U.S. citizenship without delay.
This case highlights not only the intricacies of U.S. immigration law but also the life-changing impact that knowledgeable legal guidance can provide. We are honored to have helped our client secure the immigration status he was always meant to have, paving the way for him to finally become a U.S. citizen.
Have questions about your citizenship status or immigration options? Schedule a consultation with us. Our experienced attorneys are here to help you navigate even the most complex immigration matters with confidence.
