USCIS Tightens Review of “Good Moral Character” in Citizenship Applications

• USCIS tightens citizenship review
• They evaluate taxes and child support
• Trump tightens the immigration process

The government of President Donald Trump announced that it will reinforce the review of “good moral character” (GMC) in naturalization processes.

Although this requirement has always been present, the new directive from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) seeks to broaden the factors that officers will consider when evaluating applicants.

Since May, the agency had already warned that people without “good moral character” should refrain from applying for immigration benefits.

The measure seeks to make it clear that U.S. citizenship requires more than simply completing an administrative process.

USCIS Strengthens Controls for Citizenship Applications

The update instructs immigration officers not to limit themselves solely to verifying criminal records.

Up until now, the review considered serious crimes, domestic violence, or drug use. However, with the modification, social and economic factors are added.

The document issued on August 15 states: “Among other eligibility factors, foreign nationals who apply for naturalization must demonstrate that they have been and continue to be persons of good moral character (GMC).”

It also clarifies: “Evaluating GMC involves more than a mechanical and superficial review centered on the absence of irregularities.

It involves a comprehensive assessment of the foreign national’s behavior, adherence to social norms, and positive contributions that affirmatively demonstrate good moral character.”

New Aspects to Be Evaluated

The measure now includes reviewing whether applicants pay taxes on time, whether they have had delays in those payments, and their behavior regarding child support.

These provisions are added to those already in place for Green Cards, Lawful Permanent Residency, and work visas, which have also experienced recent changes.

In an official memorandum, USCIS emphasized:

“Naturalizing as a U.S. citizen means being an active and responsible member of society, not just having the right to live and work in the United States.”

Implications for Immigrants

Experts recommend that those who wish to naturalize carefully assess their situation and consult with a certified immigration attorney before starting the process.

This way, they can avoid the risk of their citizenship applications being denied and thus losing time and money.

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This tightening of the process reflects the Trump administration’s intention to prioritize not only legality, but also the social and fiscal conduct of those seeking to become U.S. citizens.

For many immigrants, the challenge will no longer be only to meet legal requirements, but also to demonstrate an upright life record that reflects responsibility and commitment to society.

Do you think it is fair that USCIS evaluates factors such as taxes and child support in the citizenship process, in addition to legal records?

Source: La Opinión