U.S. Citizenship Rules Overhauled: What Every Green Card Holder Must Know by October 20
- Mati Lio
- 6 days ago
- 3 min read
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is set to implement significant changes to the naturalization process, with new requirements taking effect on October 20, 2025. These updates aim to enhance the assessment of applicants' knowledge of U.S. history and government and to ensure a more comprehensive evaluation of their moral character.
📘 Civics Test Overhaul
The 2025 Naturalization Civics Test introduces several key modifications:
Increased Question Pool: Applicants will now be tested on a broader range of topics, with questions drawn from a pool of 128 civics questions, up from the previous 100.
Higher Passing Threshold: To pass, applicants must correctly answer at least 12 out of 20 questions. Previously, the requirement was to answer 6 out of 10 questions correctly.
Oral Examination Format: The test remains an oral examination, with USCIS officers posing questions to applicants.
These changes aim to ensure applicants have a comprehensive understanding of U.S. history, government, and civic responsibilities. They are part of a broader effort to restore integrity to the naturalization process and align with statutory requirements.
🧭 Enhanced Evaluation of "Good Moral Character"
USCIS has also updated its approach to assessing applicants' "good moral character" (GMC):
Holistic Assessment
Officers will now consider a range of factors, including community involvement, family responsibilities, educational attainment, and compliance with tax obligations, in determining GMC.
Neighborhood and Workplace Checks
Reinstating a practice not used since the early 1990s, USCIS may conduct neighborhood and workplace interviews to verify applicants' character.
These measures aim to ensure that applicants are fully committed to the principles of the U.S. Constitution and are well-disposed to the good order and happiness of the United States.
📅 Implementation Timeline
Before October 20, 2025: Applicants who file Form N-400 will take the 2008 Naturalization Civics Test.
On or After October 20, 2025: Applicants who file Form N-400 will take the 2025 Naturalization Civics Test.
Special Age Accomodation: Applicants aged 65 or older who have held a green card for at least 20 years may continue to take a version of the test with 10 questions from a specially selected bank of 20 test questions.
📚 Practical Tips for Applicants
Start Early: Review all 128 civics questions and focus on topics you are less familiar with.
Use Official Resources: USCIS provides free study guides and sample tests. The lonk to those resources are available in the next session of this article.
Gather Documentation: Maintain proof of community involvement, employment, and tax compliance.
Prepare for Interviews: Be ready for potential neighborhood or workplace checks.
📚 Preparation Resources
To assist applicants in preparing for the new civics test, USCIS provides study materials, including:
These resources offer comprehensive information on the topics covered in the civics test and guidance on the naturalization process.
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📝 Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is based on publicly available sources and is intended for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice. For personalized guidance on the naturalization process, applicants should consult with a qualified immigration attorney.