US Citizenship Application Rules Changing from October 20, 2025

If many lawful permanent residents (Green Card holders), becoming a U.S. citizen (naturalization) is a long-cherished goal. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced significant changes to its naturalization process, beginning October 20, 2025, that will raise the bar in both the civics exam and the assessment of moral character. 

These changes will apply to those who file Form N-400 on or after October 20, 2025. Applicants whose paperwork is already pending, or filed before that date, will continue under the older standards. 

Below is a breakdown of what these changes entail and what applicants should prepare for.

1. Harder Civics Test

From “6 out of 10” to “12 out of 20”

Under the current system, naturalization applicants are asked up to 10 civics questions (drawn from a standard pool) and must correctly answer at least 6 to pass. 

Starting October 20, 2025, the new 2025 Naturalization Civics Test will require applicants to answer up to 20 questions, selected from a larger pool of 128 questions. Applicants must correctly answer 12 out of those 20 to pass. 

If an applicant gives 9 incorrect answers before reaching 12 correct ones, the test ends and the applicant fails. 

Special Rule for Seniors (65+ with 20+ Years as Green Card Holder)

The new policy retains a special, simplified test for older applicants (age 65+ who have held a Green Card for at least 20 years). Such applicants will continue to be asked only 10 questions (from a designated list) and must answer 6 correctly to pass. 

No Change to the English Requirement (So Far)

The new regulations do not alter the English language component i.e. speaking, reading, and writing of the naturalization interview. Applicants will still need to meet the existing English language requirements (unless they qualify for an exception). 

The USCIS describes the civics changes as part of a broader “multi-step” overhaul of citizenship standards. 

2. Stricter Scrutiny of “Good Moral Character”

One of the more significant shifts lies in how USCIS will assess whether an applicant has “good moral character” (GMC). Under the older approach, showing a lack of disqualifying conduct (e.g. major criminal convictions) was often sufficient. From October 20, however, the standard is being elevated. 

A More Holistic, Positive Standard

USCIS now expects officers to evaluate an applicant’s character not just by the absence of negative behavior, but also by their positive contributions and adherence to societal norms. In other words, applicants must show they are more than just “not disqualified” they must show evidence of being individuals of integrity and civic virtue. 

For example, USCIS may look for evidence of community service, letters of support from neighbors or employers, or other impactful participation in their local communities. 

Neighborhood Investigations Resurrected

In a move largely unused since 1991, USCIS officers may resume neighborhood investigations. These involve interviewing neighbors, community members, co-workers, or people who know the applicant, to confirm whether the applicant is of good moral character in everyday life. 

Officers will decide on a case-by-case basis whether to initiate these checks. 

Clearer Disqualifications

Certain behaviors will clearly disqualify a candidate from establishing GMC under the new rules. These include:

Unlawfully voting or registering to vote (if not permitted)

Making false claims to U.S. citizenship

Other illegal or fraudulent conduct

Evaluation Period

Applicants must show they had good moral character during the five years immediately preceding the application and up to the time they take the Oath of Allegiance. Conduct prior to that period may also be considered in certain circumstances. 

3. What Remains Unchanged & Transition Rules

Those who file before October 20, 2025, or whose applications are already pending, will take the existing, simpler version of the civics test and be evaluated under the older GMC rules. 

The English test (speaking, reading, writing) remains unchanged under the announced updates. 

The threshold for failure in the new civics test (9 incorrect answers) ensures applicants don’t always have to answer all 20 questions testing stops once someone fails or passes. 

4. Implications & Tips for Aspiring Citizens

More Preparation Time Needed

Because applicants will need to study a larger pool (128) of possible civics questions and answer more questions in the test, the preparation burden will increase. 

Document Your Contributions

Given the shift to a more affirmative assessment of moral character, applicants should proactively collect letters of recommendation, proof of community service, involvement in civil society, or other evidence of positive civic involvement. 

Address Past Issues

If an applicant has had minor legal issues, traffic offenses, or other negative incidents, they should be prepared to explain or show rehabilitation, since conduct outside the five-year window can still be relevant. 

Act Early If Possible

Anyone considering naturalization may wish to file before October 20 to fall under the earlier, less stringent civics test and GMC standard. 

Seek Legal Advice

Because USCIS will have broader discretion and more subjective evaluations, working with an immigration attorney or accredited representative may help applicants present a stronger case.

Conclusion

Starting October 20, 2025, U.S. naturalization will become more demanding: the civics test becomes longer and requires more correct answers, and the standard for “good moral character” evolves from a negative screen (no disqualifying behavior) to a positive, holistic standard emphasizing community contributions and character. Green card holders applying after that date will need more rigorous preparation, better documentation, and stronger personal records.