If you’re a Green Card hold applying for U.S. citizenship, a new immigration policy that you should be aware of may affect your case. Recently, in August 2025, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced the reinstatement of the practice of conducting “neighborhood checks” for certain naturalization applicants.
This shift means that some applicants could face additional scrutiny and longer processing times when seeking to naturalize. For anyone seeking to become a U.S. citizen, understanding this policy change and working with an experienced naturalization lawyer can make a big difference.
What Are USCIS Neighborhood Checks?
Under section 335(a) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), USCIS officers are authorized to conduct community investigations as part of their background checks. These citizenship investigations may involve contacting neighbors, employers, or coworkers to verify an applicant’s:
- Continuous residence in the U.S.
- Steady employment and community ties
- “Good moral character”
- Commitment to U.S. constitutional principles
Although this authority has always existed, USCIS largely waived neighborhood investigations since the early 1990s, relying instead on FBI fingerprinting and regular background checks. The 2025 policy memo has now revived this tool as part of the naturalization process.
Who Is Most Likely to Be Affected?
It is worth noting that all applicants will face a neighborhood check. Many straightforward cases may still move forward without one. However, a citizenship application is more likely to trigger additional scrutiny if there are inconsistencies or gaps in the applicant’s history; the application lacks supporting documents or testimonials; questions arise about moral character or residence; or USCIS officers cannot clearly verify employment or community involvement.
Why This Matters
Because USCIS is already experiencing long processing times, adding these in-person inquiries could further delay naturalization applications, which can have an effect on other types of applications as well as resources are moved to conduct these investigations. For many immigrants, this may mean waiting longer to take the Oath of Allegiance and become a U.S. citizen.
Working with an immigration attorney who understands how USCIS evaluates cases can help you anticipate these challenges and prepare your file strategically.
How to Strengthen a Naturalization Application
- Submit testimonial letters upfront. Statements from neighbors, employers, or community members confirming your residence and character can demonstrate credibility.
- Provide complete documentation. Tax returns, lease agreements, pay stubs, and school or community records can help prove continuous residence.
- Update USCIS promptly. Report any address or employment changes immediately.
- Prepare your references. If USCIS does reach out, your neighbors and employers should be ready to confirm accurate information.
Final Thoughts
The revival of USCIS neighborhood checks signals increased scrutiny in naturalization cases. While most applicants may not be affected, the policy underscores the importance of filing a strong, well-documented application from the start.
At Wildes & Weinberg, our experienced immigration attorneys guide clients through the U.S. citizenship process, helping them prepare for potential complications and avoid unnecessary delays.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the next step toward becoming a U.S. citizen with confidence by emailing michael@wildeslaw.com.
*This is an ongoing development, and this post may not be updated.