Hi aguys,
Hope I can get some good advice.. Couple of months ago, I received notice that my naturalization request was denied based on the grounds that I didn't know Portuguese, even though I am conversational.
At the time of submitting my original request, I was given a sheet of paper describing the length of time that the whole process would take to complete (I think it was approximately 6 months in total).
I submitted all the required documentation in 2017 before there was a change in law stipulating that you had to present the CELPE-Bras certificate.
The time of this process took way longer than their estimated 6 month and was more like nearly 3 years. During this time there was no movement and only in the last 3 or so months I was asked to produce the CELPE-Bras certificate or some other options (like BR university degree etc). Now, I know that to sit the test takes some study time as well as the fact that it is only held twice a year. So this needed to be planned in advance.
They denied my request due to not being able to present this certificate.
I appealed stating something along the lines of (1) based on the time taken for the process and the fact that (2) I entered my process before the major law change, even though there has been a number of additional legal amendments/requirements made during the term that I was not made aware or informed of. (3) I would have to mark the date for the next exam which would push the process out even further so that I could present the certificate, that (4) I should be approved based on the law standing at the time that I submitted my naturalization request.
Again, they denied my appeal just stating that I did not know Portuguese.
Me and my brazilian wife are trying to understand what this now means.. Is there anything that can be done now? Or do I need to start the process all over again - That seems quite unfair.
Thank for any constructive advice!