Naturalization Delays Spark Concerns Over USCIS Processing Tactics

A Reddit user reports that their Colombian wife's naturalization application has been under review for over four months following a successful citizenship interview in October 2025. Despite passing all components of the naturalization interview—including U.S. history, language skills, and employment questions—the USCIS officer indicated further investigation was needed before approval could be granted. The case took an unusual turn when USCIS issued a Notice of Cancellation for a Request for Additional Evidence (RFE) that the applicant never actually received, either by mail or through the online portal. This procedural anomaly has left the applicant uncertain about the current status and whether USCIS now has sufficient information to render a decision. The applicant raises two possible explanations for the delay: diplomatic tensions between the United States and Colombia, or broader systemic delays in USCIS naturalization processing. While U.S.-Colombia relations have experienced some friction in recent years, USCIS has not publicly cited geopolitical factors as a basis for processing delays on individual cases. For EB-3 green card holders approaching their five-year naturalization eligibility, this case highlights the importance of monitoring case status closely, maintaining records of all correspondence, and being prepared for extended post-interview review periods. Filing an inquiry with USCIS or consulting an immigration attorney may be advisable when cases remain unresolved beyond expected timeframes. Applicants experiencing similar delays should document all communications, check their USCIS online account regularly, and consider submitting a case inquiry if no decision is made within the posted processing times listed on the USCIS website.