Overview

• On August 15, USCIS issued a directive requiring officers to apply a holistic good moral character assessment that goes beyond criminal record checks.
• The framework highlights positive factors such as community involvement, family caregiving, educational achievements, stable employment, length of U.S. residency and tax compliance.
• The memo flags lawful conduct deemed uncivic—such as reckless or habitual traffic violations, harassment or aggressive solicitation—as grounds for scrutiny.
• Officers must consider evidence of rehabilitation, including probation compliance, payment of overdue taxes or child support and letters of community support.
• USCIS officials say the policy restores integrity to the naturalization process, while former agency staff and advocates warn it could deter eligible immigrants and expand discretionary denials.