New USCIS Guidance on Good Moral Character for Citizenship Applicants
On August 15, 2025, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issued new policy guidance that changes how officers evaluate Good Moral Character for naturalization applicants. This is an important development for anyone considering applying for U.S. citizenship.
What is Good Moral Character
To qualify for naturalization, applicants must prove that they have been and continue to be a person of good moral character during the required statutory period. In the past, USCIS often limited its review to whether an applicant had committed certain disqualifying crimes. Under the new policy, officers must now take a more complete view of each applicant’s life. This includes not only negative conduct but also positive contributions and evidence of strong community ties.
Positive Factors That Can Strengthen an Application
USCIS will now give greater attention to affirmative evidence of good moral character. Positive factors include community service and involvement, responsibility toward family members, educational achievements, stable employment history, long-term lawful residence in the United States, and compliance with tax and financial responsibilities. By highlighting these elements, applicants can show that they are active and responsible members of society.
Conduct That Can Weaken an Application
Certain actions remain serious barriers to naturalization. These include permanent bars such as murder, aggravated felonies, genocide, torture, and persecution. Conditional bars include repeated DUI convictions, drug offenses, fraud, or false claims to U.S. citizenship. USCIS may also consider conduct that is not criminal but is inconsistent with civic responsibility, such as reckless driving patterns or harassment.
The Importance of Rehabilitation
Applicants who have made mistakes in the past can still present evidence of rehabilitation. USCIS officers are instructed to consider whether the applicant has taken meaningful steps to reform. Examples include repayment of overdue taxes, compliance with probation terms, fulfillment of child support obligations, and testimony from community members who can speak to the applicant’s character. Genuine efforts to correct past wrongs and demonstrate positive growth may help establish good moral character.
What This Means for Applicants
This policy reflects a shift away from a checklist approach and toward a more comprehensive assessment of each individual’s life. While serious crimes remain an absolute bar, applicants now have an opportunity to show their contributions, responsibilities, and reformation efforts. Preparing strong evidence of positive character is more important than ever for those seeking U.S. citizenship.
How LAWMAKS Can Help
At LAWMAKS we guide clients through every stage of the naturalization process. Our team ensures that applications clearly present all evidence of positive contributions and rehabilitation where needed. If you are preparing to apply for U.S. citizenship, contact LAWMAKS today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help position your application for success.
