Citizenship Standards Shift to Contributions

Updated: 2025.10.01 21D ago 2 sources
USCIS plans to toughen the naturalization exam (e.g., longer civics section, essay) and to judge 'good moral character' by an applicant’s positive contributions, not just lack of wrongdoing. The agency frames this as aligning more with points‑based approaches that reward skills, education, English, and civic commitment. — Recasting citizenship around demonstrable contributions could reshape naturalization outcomes and spark debate over assimilation, merit, and fairness in U.S. immigration policy.

Sources

Welcome Changes to Immigration Policy
2025.10.01 90% relevant
The item reports USCIS plans to toughen the naturalization exam and 'good moral character' criteria—directly matching the idea that citizenship standards are shifting toward demonstrated contributions and stricter civic requirements.
Some Bright Spots in Immigration Policy
Santiago Vidal Calvo 2025.09.30 100% relevant
USCIS’s proposed exam changes (20 civics questions; essay) and the stated shift to a contributions‑focused 'good moral character' assessment, as described by Director Joseph Edlow.
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