US Doctor Loses Citizenship Over Diplomatic Ties at 61
Siavash Sobhani, a prominent North Virginia resident and respected doctor, faces an uncertain future after losing his US citizenship at 61.
The US State Department, responding to his passport renewal application, revealed that due to his father’s diplomatic status at the Iranian Embassy during his birth, Sobhani wasn’t eligible for citizenship.
Despite practicing medicine for over 30 years without issues, Sobhani now navigates a complex legal process.
At 62, contemplating retirement and global travel with his spouse, he must apply for lawful permanent residence, incurring over $40,000 in legal expenses.
Expressing concern over prolonged resolution times, Sobhani shared with The Washington Post, “I’m waiting for an interview, but does that mean I wait another year for an interview? Then another three years for the next step? Then another 10 years before I can travel outside of the country?”
In seeking support, Sobhani has reached out to Virginia’s congressman, Gerald Edward Connolly, who intervened with US Citizenship and Immigration Services on his behalf.
However, uncertainties persist, as Sobhani’s vocal opposition to the Iranian regime jeopardizes his safety if he were to return.
Adding to his challenges, the physician faces the potential inability to attend his son’s wedding in Portugal due to passport delays.
Furthermore, he is unable to visit his gravely ill father-in-law in Lebanon, highlighting the profound personal impact of this legal ordeal.
