USCIS EXPANDS NEIGHBORHOOD INVESTIGATIONS

USCIS has issued new guidance strengthening the screening and investigation of individuals applying for U.S. citizenship through naturalization.

Under the updated policy, USCIS may conduct “neighborhood investigations” to independently verify an applicant’s eligibility, character and information provided during the naturalization process.

What You Need to Know:

Neighborhood investigations are back: USCIS has ended the longstanding general waiver of these investigations and may investigate naturalization applicants under INA §335(a).

Community information may be considered: USCIS may obtain information from members of the community regarding an applicant’s character and activities when determining eligibility for citizenship.

Information may be independently verified: USCIS can confirm information provided by an applicant through documents, investigative information and testimony during the naturalization interview.

Character reference letters may help: Applicants may voluntarily submit testimonial or character-reference letters, preferably from U.S. citizens who are not family members, addressing the applicant’s character, loyalty to the United States, constitutional attachment and other naturalization requirements. USCIS may consider these letters when deciding whether to waive a neighborhood investigation.

Investigations are not necessarily automatic for everyone: USCIS retains discretion to waive a neighborhood investigation in individual cases or classes of cases.

Good Moral Character remains important: USCIS says these investigations may help determine whether applicants satisfy requirements including good moral character, attachment to the U.S. Constitution, and disposition to the good order and happiness of the United States.

What This Means for Citizenship Applicants:

Naturalization applicants should expect greater scrutiny and verification of the information provided in their N-400 applications.

It is increasingly important that information about your residence, employment, travel, family history, taxes, criminal history and other relevant matters is accurate and consistent with your supporting records.

Effective: August 25, 2026
Applies to: Naturalization applications pending or filed on or after this date.

To read the Policy Alert, click the link: https://www.uscis.gov/sites/default/files/document/policy-manual-updates/20260825-InvestigationsForNatzEligibility.pdf

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For informational purposes only. This communication does not constitute legal advice.