USCIS ALERT — “Neighborhood Checks” for Naturalization Are Back

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (“USCIS”) has officially reminded citizenship applicants that an older form of background check — personal neighborhood investigations — is being reinstated as part of the naturalization process. This practice had largely been dormant for decades but has now resumed as USCIS emphasizes deeper vetting of applicants. 

Key Points:

• USCIS may conduct in-person visits to an applicant’s neighborhood, workplace, employer, and potentially interview neighbors or coworkers to verify good moral character, residency,

and assimilation. 

• These checks are discretionary and may be triggered if documentation (e.g., testimonial letters) is insufficient. 

• The policy is part of a broader shift to reinforce statutory requirements and ensure thorough vetting beyond traditional computerized checks. 

 Practical Tips for Applicants:

Applicants should include testimonial letters from neighbors, employers, or community leaders with their N-400 packages. 

Prepare for the possibility of enhanced scrutiny, especially regarding good moral character and community ties. 

Note: This change reflects an ongoing trend toward more comprehensive vetting in the U.S. naturalization process.

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