The US has updated its naturalization rules in 2025. Find out what has changed in the “good moral character” requirements, what documents need to be prepared, and how the new approach will affect citizenship candidates

If you’re considering becoming a U.S. citizen, you should be aware of recent changes in the way applicants are evaluated. The U.S. government is reportedly tightening the requirements for immigrants applying for naturalization, shifting the focus from simply “no criminal record” to “evidence of good moral character.” Read this article to learn everything you need to know about the changes to the U.S. citizenship process.

USCIS has implemented new mandatory fees for asylum, work authorization, and TPS starting July 22, 2025. We've already covered how much it now costs to file an application, who it affects, and what happens if you don't pay on time.

When planning a trip abroad, be sure to take care of a travel insurance policy that will protect you from unforeseen situations during the trip and compensate for unplanned expenses - for medical treatment, in case of lost luggage, flight cancellation, etc.

What’s changed for applicants for U.S. citizenship in 2025?

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has updated its internal guidelines for officers. They must now conduct a more in-depth background check on applicants, assessing not only criminal history or financial discipline, but also their overall lifestyle and contributions to society.

Previously, the concept of “good moral character” was mostly viewed through the lens of the absence of serious violations of the law. Now, officers recommend taking into account a person’s daily actions, their relationships with the community, professional development, and social responsibility.

General Requirements for U.S. Citizenship

To apply for naturalization, an applicant must generally meet the following basic criteria:

1. Age and Status

- The applicant must be 18 years of age or older.

- Must have been a permanent resident of the United States (green card holder) for at least 5 years (or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen).

2. Permanent Residency

- Must have resided in the United States continuously.

- The applicant must have been physically present in the United States for a certain number of days during the past 5 or 3 years.

3. English Proficiency

Ability to read, write, and speak English (exceptions may be made for seniors or people with special needs).

4. Knowledge of U.S. History and Government

A civics exam is taken that tests knowledge of the U.S. Constitution, history, and structure of the government.

5. Good moral character

Now this point has been strengthened, as we described above: officers assess behavior, law-abiding behavior, participation in public life and responsibility to society.

6. Oath of allegiance

The candidate must swear allegiance to the United States and renounce previous citizenship (with some exceptions).

What does “good moral character” mean in the United States in 2025?

Traditionally, to obtain citizenship, it was necessary:

- Not to have serious criminal offenses (murder, drug trafficking, serious fraud);

- Avoid immigration violations;

- Not to have repeated legal problems.

The new USCIS guidelines expand this assessment. Now officers conduct a holistic assessment of the candidate’s life, taking into account the following aspects:

- Community activity and volunteerism

Participation in charitable projects, helping local organizations or schools.

- Family responsibilities

Caring for children, parents, or other family members.

- Education and professional development

Graduating from school, university, or taking advanced training courses.

- Stable work and legal income

Long-term employment and timely payment of taxes.

- Social integration

Confirmation of long-term residence in the United States and a stable life in the community.

Even if the candidate has had problems in the past – for example, criminal records, unpaid taxes, or alimony – USCIS advises officers to pay attention to signs of rehabilitation. These can include:

- Successful completion of probation;

- Payment of debts or fines;

- Recommendations from the community or employers confirming a change in behavior.

How will changes in the requirements for obtaining US citizenship affect candidates?

The changes may complicate the naturalization process for some immigrants. Now, simply passing the civics exam and having no criminal record is not enough. It is important to demonstrate that you are actively building a life that meets U.S. moral standards and that you are making a positive impact on those around you.

This means:

- document your participation in community activities;

- emphasize job stability and financial discipline;

- have references from employers or community members;

- if there have been problems in the past, provide evidence of correction.

Why are changes to the US citizenship procedure important?

The new recommendations reflect a broader trend: the US government wants immigrants to not only follow the rules, but also be active and responsible members of society.

For candidates, this means: the assessment will become more personalized, and officers will have more freedom in making decisions. Therefore, thorough preparation, documentation of your own achievements and participation in community life become critically important.

Checklist: what documents are desirable to prepare before applying for US citizenship?

- Passport or green card (proof of permanent residency)

- Certificate of no criminal responsibility / criminal record (if any)

- Tax returns for the last 3-5 years

- Proof of legal income or employment (job offer, pay stubs, letter from employer)

- Proof of volunteer or community activities (letters from organizations, certificates, recommendations)

- Marriage/birth certificates of children (if applicable)

- Letters of recommendation from employers/community members (especially if there have been problems in the past)

- Documents confirming the completion of the probationary period or repayment of debts (if there have been violations)

- Confirmation of successful completion of courses or education (diplomas, certificates)

- Proof of long-term residence in the USA (lease agreement, bank statements, utility bills, etc.)

Tip: If you are not sure how to properly prepare a package of documents or are in doubt whether any point in your biography may affect the decision of USCIS - contact an experienced immigration lawyer.

Specialists will help assess your situation, prepare the necessary evidence of “good moral character” and will accompany you at every stage of the application. Often, professional support significantly increases the chances of successfully obtaining citizenship.

Obtaining US citizenship now involves not only passing exams and a clean record, but also real evidence of the candidate’s moral and social contribution. If you plan to apply, review your history, contribution to the community and personal achievements. The level of expectations has increased, but at the same time it has become clearer what really matters to USCIS.

Reminder! Starting in August 2025, the US will introduce a pilot visa bond program that will require travelers from certain countries to pay up to $ 15,000 for B-1/B-2 visas. We’ve already covered who this applies to, why it happens, and how it could impact tourism and immigration.

---

Products from Visit World for a comfortable trip:

---

We monitor the accuracy and relevance of our information, so if you notice any errors or inconsistencies, please contact our hotline.