Doctor Loses US Citizenship After 61 Years While Attempting to Renew Passport – Discover His Compelling Journey

A 62-year-old doctor from Virginia has lost his US citizenship after 61 years due to his late father’s status as an Iranian diplomat at the time of his birth. Siavash Sobhani, who was born in the United States and has been practicing medicine in the country for over 30 years, received a letter from a State Department official informing him that he was granted US citizenship by mistake as an infant. The letter stated that individuals born in the US to parents with diplomatic immunity do not automatically acquire US citizenship.

Mr. Sobhani expressed his shock and disbelief upon receiving the news. He stated that he has dedicated his life to serving his community and has been an active member of society, paying taxes, voting for presidents, and working on the frontlines during the Covid pandemic. He found it incredibly shocking to be told after 61 years that he was no longer a US citizen.

The doctor had applied for a new passport in February, expecting a routine procedure as he had renewed his passport multiple times before without any issues. Instead, he received a letter from the State Department stating that he should not have been granted citizenship at the time of his birth because his father was an Iranian diplomat. The letter instructed him to apply for lawful permanent residence on a specific website.

Mr. Sobhani emphasized that throughout his life, his US citizenship had been confirmed repeatedly, particularly during passport renewals. Therefore, it was a devastating shock for him to suddenly be informed that he was no longer a US citizen.

Following the instructions in the letter, the doctor has applied for permanent residence and has incurred legal fees amounting to over $40,000. However, he is concerned about the uncertainty surrounding his case and the potential lengthy wait for resolution. He questions whether he will have to wait another year for an interview, followed by additional years for the next steps, and even more time before he can travel outside of the country.

Mr. Sobhani’s situation highlights the complexities and unexpected challenges that can arise in matters of citizenship and immigration. His case serves as a reminder of the importance of thoroughly understanding and addressing legal requirements and potential complications associated with citizenship.