US citizenship applicants may face scrutiny from neighbours, co-workers and others under new USCIS guidelines
Those applying for US citizenship could face scrutiny from their neighbours, co-workers and wider communities as the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has formally laid out how it will conduct neighbourhood investigations during the naturalisation (citizenship) process.
The new guidance, issued on Aug 25, took effect immediately and applies to citizenship applications pending on that date as well as those filed thereafter. Applicants can voluntarily submit character-reference or testimonial letters with their Form N-400 application.
USCIS says such letters, preferably from US citizens who are not family members, may be considered when deciding whether to waive a neighbourhood investigation. Investigators may seek information from people who know the applicant, including neighbours, landlords, employers, co-workers, business associates, customers and others. The scope can be wide, covering an applicant’s family and marital history, social activities and associations, employment and business activities, financial obligations and reputation in the community. USCIS added that information from members of the community can assist in determining whether an applicant meets citizenship requirements, including good moral character and being well disposed to the good order and happiness of the US. However, immigration attorneys point out that even if these letters are submitted, USCIS officials may still decide to speak to neighbours, co-workers, employers and others. For the Indian diaspora, which has navigated lengthy green card waits before becoming eligible for naturalisation, the prospect of a review extending beyond their application papers and citizenship interview could add a layer of uncertainty. Immigration attorneys believe that, by and large, a history of stable employment, regular tax payments and participation in their children’s school activities or the wider community could stand Indian applicants in good stead. However, the bottom line is that it remains to be seen how this new guidance will be enforced.