1. A change of nationality generally will not affect green card processing
A reader asks:
I applied for an EB-1A visa and is in the process. Currently, my family is in Europe awaiting for the priority date. Our NVC documents have been completed. Originally, my plan was for my children and I to change our nationality to the country where we live in Europe after I get its green card. My husband has other considerations and is holding off on changing his nationality for now. I’m not sure if this will affect my US green card application.
I’ve heard that the US only recognizes dual citizenship if the final nationality is US. I’m not sure if there are any other similar regulations during the green card period. Given the current backlog, which could last for the next two to three years, I’m considering renewing my nationality during the waiting of priority date. If so, do I need to withdraw the processed documents, renew the DS-260, and then resubmit it? How long would this take? What potential problems might arise from this process?
Alan Lee Esq. answers:
Change of nationality generally will not affect green card processing, as the determination of priority dates goes by country of birth and not country of nationality. The US recognizes dual nationality from a number of countries, mainly on a reciprocal basis and that we are friendly with those countries. Change of nationality and passport are considered significant factors in consular processing, and the DS-260 should be updated. Updating should be a fairly quick process.