USCIS Expands Disqualifying Offenses for Naturalization, Emphasizes Moral Character and Civic Responsibility
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has implemented a new policy under the Trump administration, expanding disqualifying offenses for naturalization and emphasizing the evaluation of applicants’ positive contributions to society. According to an agency memo dated August 15, USCIS officers must consider the ‘positive contributions’ of immigrants applying for U.S. citizenship as part of a more ‘holistic’ approach. This policy introduces a shift from a mechanical review of the absence of misconduct to a more comprehensive assessment of an applicant’s behavior and civic responsibility.
The new policy, directed by the USCIS, includes expanding the list of disqualifying offenses from serious violent crimes to also include drug use or two or more convictions for driving under the influence. Officers are also encouraged to consider conduct that may not be illegal but is considered inconsistent with civic responsibility within the community, such as ‘reckless or habitual traffic infractions, or harassment or aggressive solicitation.’ The White House has referred questions about this policy to the agency, indicating the administration’s ongoing focus on the integrity of the immigration system and the privilege of U.S. citizenship.
The memo stresses that U.S. citizenship should only be offered to the ‘world’s best of the best,’ ensuring that new citizens embrace America’s culture, history, and language while demonstrating good moral character. The policy also encourages officers to look at factors such as community involvement, family caregiving or raising a family, educational attainment, stable and lawful employment history, career achievements, and tax payments, reflecting a more holistic view of civic responsibility.
Immigrants seeking to attain U.S. citizenship must already live in the country for several years and pass a civics test in English, among other requirements.