USCIS Tightens ‘Good Moral Character’ Review in Naturalization Applications

Key Point 

• U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has revised its approach to evaluating good moral character in naturalization cases 

Naturalization Character Review Changes 

On August 15, 2025, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issued a policy memorandum detailing an update to the evaluation of “good moral character” in the naturalization process. The revised guidance introduces a broader and more individualized approach to assessing applicants, supplementing existing rule-based criteria. 

According to USCIS, the updated framework aims to support a more holistic review of an applicant’s conduct, including factors such as personal behavior, participation in community activities and general adherence to societal expectations. 

Effective Date and Applicability 

This policy is effective immediately and applies to all pending and future naturalization applications. 

Totality of Circumstances Standard 

USCIS officers will now evaluate Good Moral Character (GMC) using a comprehensive, case-by-case approach. This includes reviewing both favorable and adverse aspects of an applicant’s conduct and contributions. 

Positive Contributions Considered 

Applicants may submit evidence of the following to support a finding of GMC: 

• Active community involvement and civic engagement
• Family caregiving responsibilities
• Educational accomplishments
• Lawful employment and financial stability
• Compliance with tax obligations
• Length of lawful residence in the U.S.

Review of Disqualifying Conduct 

While statutory bars remain in effect, officers will also assess other behaviors that may impact GMC determinations: 

• Statutory bars: Murder, aggravated felonies and other permanent disqualifiers. 
• Conditional bars: DUIs, drug-related offenses, false claims to U.S. citizenship. 
• Other conduct: Actions that, while lawful, may be inconsistent with community norms, such as habitual traffic violations, harassment or aggressive behavior.  

Rehabilitation and Reform 

Applicants with prior infractions may present evidence of rehabilitation, including: 

• Completion of court-imposed obligations 
• Repayment of debts or overpaid benefits 
• Credible testimony from community members 
• Participation in mentorship or advocacy initiatives 

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