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THE LIBERTY TRIBUNE

USCIS Reinstates 'Good Moral Character' Requirement For Citizenship

Updated: 9/18/2025

USCIScitizenshipimmigrationTrump administrationWinston Churchill

What it is

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has reinstated a requirement for prospective citizens to demonstrate a standard of "Good Moral Character." This directive, outlined in a recent memo, marks a return to policies that were relaxed in the early 1990s. Supporters argue that this change is a necessary step to ensure that those seeking citizenship align with the values of American society.

Why it matters

  • Supporters argue that this change is a necessary step to ensure that those seeking citizenship align with the values of American society
  • Critics of the new standard contend that it could complicate the citizenship process and introduce political biases
  • They argue that the requirement may disproportionately affect certain groups of immigrants
  • He highlighted the historical significance of citizenship and the need for a comprehensive evaluation of applicants
  • The memo also draws parallels to the congressional debate surrounding honorary citizenship for Winston Churchill in 1963
  • During that time, lawmakers engaged in extensive discussions about the implications of granting such status, emphasizing the sacredness of citizenship

Key facts

  • Supporters argue that this change is a necessary step to ensure that those seeking citizenship align with the values of American society

Timeline & recent coverage

  • See related posts on our site; this explainer updates when new reporting appears
  • For deeper background, explore the sources below

Primary sources

Further reading & references

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