USCIS Resumes Neighborhood Checks for Citizenship Applicants

Big news for anyone applying for U.S. citizenship: USCIS has announced that it will once again conduct neighborhood investigations as part of the naturalization process. This practice hasn’t been common for decades — but as of August 22, 2025, it’s officially back.

What Is a Neighborhood Investigation?

When you apply for citizenship, USCIS must decide if you meet all the requirements:

• Continuous residence

• Attachment to the U.S. Constitution

• Good moral character

In the past — especially before 1981 — USCIS officers often confirmed these requirements by visiting neighborhoods, talking to neighbors and employers, and even requiring two witnesses to testify about an applicant’s character. Over time, this practice faded away. By the 1990s, USCIS mostly relied on fingerprints, FBI background checks, and criminal history reports.

What Changed in 2025?

On August 22, 2025, USCIS issued a new policy memorandum ending the general waiver of neighborhood investigations. This means officers may once again investigate applicants’ communities to confirm eligibility for naturalization.

Here’s what it could include:

• Reviewing your last five years before filing your application

• Checking your home and workplace

• Asking neighbors, co-workers, or employers for letters about your character

• Requesting proof of your attachment to U.S. values and the Constitution

USCIS also said it will encourage applicants to submit these letters proactively to avoid delays or in-person checks.

Why Does This Matter?

This change represents a big shift in how USCIS evaluates applicants. Instead of relying mostly on documents and databases, officers may now consider your reputation and daily life in your community.

That means your:

• Relationships with neighbors

• Conduct at work

• Involvement in the community

… could play a direct role in whether you qualify for citizenship.

What Should Applicants Do?

If you’re applying for citizenship now or in the near future, here are some steps to prepare:

✅ Build and maintain good relationships with your neighbors and co-workers

✅ Be proactive — gather letters of support from people who know you

✅ Show responsibility at work and in your community

✅ Upload supporting documents or letters with your application when possible

These steps can help demonstrate your good moral character and reduce the chance of a lengthy investigation.

Final Thoughts

The return of neighborhood investigations is a major change in the U.S. naturalization process. While not every applicant will face one, USCIS now has the discretion to use them on a case-by-case basis.

The bottom line: Your daily actions and community reputation matter more than ever. If you’re applying for U.S. citizenship, it’s smart to prepare in advance.