Major Changes to U.S. Citizenship Rules Take Effect Today

As announced by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), new naturalisation rules are taking effect today, September 18, 2025. These changes are especially important for those who are submitting their applications for citizenship now.

Key Changes to Know:

• Changes to the Naturalisation Test: As of September 18, the USCIS is changing the civics test to better assess applicants’ knowledge of U.S. history and government.
• New Version of the N-400 Form: A new, shorter version of the N-400 application has also taken effect. The form has been reduced from 20 to 14 pages, with some questions removed or made optional. It’s recommended that you carefully review the new form if you are submitting your application now.
• Stricter Evaluation of “Good Moral Character”: The USCIS has issued a new policy memorandum that more strictly defines the criteria officials will use to assess an applicant’s “good moral character.” In practice, this means stricter background checks.

What This Means for Applicants

If you submitted your application on the old form before today, September 17, it will be adjudicated under the old rules. If you submit your application today or later, it will be processed according to the new rules and the new form. The USCIS has indicated that further modifications are expected in the future.

Applicants are advised to always follow the latest official information on the USCIS website or to consult with an immigration lawyer.

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Source: USCIS

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