Since Lawful Permanent Resident status is the foundation for naturalization, it is crucial to remember two related concepts:
As part of the naturalization process, the INS Examiner is trained to review the circumstances under which LPR status was obtained, no matter how long ago it occurred. If subsequent events as reflected in the application reveal that the applicant may not have been entitled to LPR status, the matter may be referred for investigation and possible deportation proceedings;
Even if LPR status was clearly obtained properly, the Examiner will look for evidence of subsequent abandonment of status; once again this could result in deportation proceedings.
Consequently, all applicants should carefully consider whether coming forward with a naturalization application will set in motion a process to revoke or terminate LPR status.