U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced an important policy shift in how it evaluates applicants for naturalization. The new memorandum restores a rigorous, holistic, and comprehensive approach to determining Good Moral Character (GMC), a requirement for becoming a U.S. citizen.
What Is Good Moral Character (GMC)?
To become a naturalized citizen, applicants must show that they have been, and continue to be, people of “good moral character” during the required statutory period. In practice, this means more than simply avoiding criminal activity. It involves demonstrating positive contributions to society and living up to the ethical standards expected of U.S. citizens.
Key Changes in the New Policy
- Holistic Review
- Officers will no longer focus only on whether an applicant has avoided disqualifying acts.
- Instead, they must consider the totality of circumstances, including positive attributes such as community involvement, education, employment history, and family responsibilities.
- Positive Contributions Count
- Evidence of community service, stable work history, tax compliance, caregiving, and other positive actions can now strengthen an applicant’s case.
- Evidence of community service, stable work history, tax compliance, caregiving, and other positive actions can now strengthen an applicant’s case.
- Scrutiny of Misconduct
- Permanent bars remain in place for crimes such as murder, aggravated felonies, torture, and genocide.
- Conditional bars apply to issues like drug offenses, multiple DUI convictions, false claims to U.S. citizenship, or unlawful voting.
- Even behavior that is not technically illegal, such as reckless driving or harassment, may be weighed if it falls short of community standards.
- Rehabilitation Matters
- USCIS will recognize genuine efforts at reform. Applicants can present evidence of rehabilitation such as paying overdue taxes or child support, completing probation, or showing community testimony about their character.
Why This Matters
For many years, the standard for GMC became more rigid, treating it as a checklist of disqualifications. This update signals a return to balance. Applicants will now have the opportunity to show the full picture of their character, including growth, reform, and positive community impact
What Applicants Should Do
If you’re applying for U.S. citizenship, be prepared to:
- Document Positive Contributions: Collect evidence of community service, employment, taxes paid, and family responsibilities.
- Address Any Past Issues Honestly: Provide proof of rehabilitation if applicable.
- Show Your Whole Story: USCIS will now look at both positive and negative aspects of your life when making a decision.
Bottom Line
Becoming a U.S. citizen is more than just meeting paperwork requirements, it’s about showing commitment, integrity, and responsibility. This policy change gives applicants a better chance to present their true character and demonstrate why they are ready to take the oath of citizenship.
At ILOLA, we can help you prepare a strong application that highlights your contributions, addresses potential concerns, and ensures your story is fully represented. Contact us today for a free naturalization case review at (213) 375-4084.
