Good moral character remains a requirement for naturalization, but a new USCIS memo directs officers to prioritize applicants' positive contributions such as community service and education. The memo mandates closer examination of serious offenses like murder and drug violations while also disqualifying behavior that, though lawful, is deemed inconsistent with civic duty. Additionally, genuine rehabilitation efforts will be considered positively. USCIS has also announced updates requiring social media vetting for signs of anti-American activity in immigration benefit requests.
USCIS officers are now required to put greater emphasis on an applicant's positive attributes and contributions such as community involvement and educational attainment, not just the absence of misconduct.
Under the new memo, there is heightened scrutiny of disqualifying behaviors, including serious offenses like murder and aggravated felonies, as well as behavior lawful yet inconsistent with civic responsibility.
The policy includes consideration of factors showing genuine rehabilitation, like rectifying overdue child support or past-due taxes, to assess good moral character.
USCIS will also update guidance on reviewing immigration benefit requests, including social media vetting, focusing on any involvement with anti-American or terrorist organizations.
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