Article Summary

USCIS has reinstated neighborhood investigations for US citizenship applicants, a practice discontinued in 1991. These investigations cover an applicant's residence and employment history for five years to corroborate eligibility, including good moral character. Applicants may be required to provide testimonial letters, and failure to do so could trigger a direct investigation by USCIS officials.

TNP AI: Key Insights

The reintroduction of neighborhood investigations signifies a substantial shift in the naturalization process, moving beyond standard documentation to include subjective community perception in assessing 'good moral character.' This policy, previously abandoned in 1991, could lengthen processing times and intensify the emotional burden for skilled professionals on their path to citizenship.

For employers of foreign talent and immigration attorneys, this development adds complexity to workforce planning and legal guidance, as individuals must now proactively consider how their community ties and professional relationships might be assessed. It underscores a broader trend of increased scrutiny within the US immigration system, potentially reinforcing a sense of 'outsider' status for those pursuing permanent residency.