On August 15, 2025, USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services) issued new guidance changing how the requirement of Good Moral Character (GMC) is evaluated for citizenship applicants. This marks an important shift: officers will no longer rely solely on rigid lists of disqualifications but instead apply a “totality of the circumstances”approach.

Key Changes

Comprehensive evaluation
Applicants must actively demonstrate good moral character. Simply not having committed crimes is not enough—officers will weigh both negative behaviors and positive community contributions.

Positive attributes considered

USCIS will now value factors such as:

• Community participation and volunteering.
• Family responsibility and caregiving.
• Education and academic achievements.
• Stable and lawful employment.
• Tax compliance and financial responsibility.
• Length of lawful residence in the U.S.

Closer review of negative conduct
Not only serious crimes, but also behaviors contrary to community standards—such as repeated traffic violations, harassment, or aggressive actions—will be considered. Serious offenses like multiple DUIs, unlawful voting, or drug-related crimes remain clear barriers.

Greater weight on rehabilitation
USCIS will give credit to efforts at reform: paying overdue debts or child support, fulfilling probation terms, or presenting credible letters of changed behavior may help restore GMC after past mistakes.

More officer discretion
Even without a statutory bar, adjudicators may deny naturalization if they find the applicant does not meet the moral character standard of an average member of the community.

Practical Impact

For citizenship seekers, this means the burden of proof is greater. It’s no longer enough to show a lack of criminal record; applicants must demonstrate an active, responsible life aligned with community values. USCIS may request more documentation, references, and background evidence.

At Benme Legal, we recommend preparing in advance with positive contributions, strong references, and rehabilitation evidence if needed.

Citizenship is more than paperwork—it is recognition of your journey and commitment to the values of the United States.