Archive · 3 Sep 2025
US Resumes Neighborhood Checks for Green Card Holders
The US government is starting to check up on people who want to become citizens, even if they already have a green card.
This involves asking people who know the applicant, like neighbors and coworkers, for information.
The government used to do this, then stopped, but now it's starting again to make sure everyone is eligible.
They might ask for letters from people who know the applicant well.
If someone doesn't provide this information, the government may do a neighborhood investigation.
This aims to verify that people meet the necessary requirements to become US citizens.
USCIS is resuming personal investigations for naturalization applicants.
Investigations cover an applicant's residence and employment.
Information may be requested from neighbors, employers, and associates.
Failure to provide evidence could lead to a neighborhood investigation.
USCIS retains the discretion to conduct or waive investigations.
- Who
- USCIS
- What
- Resuming neighborhood investigations for naturalization applicants.
- When
- Policy announced August 22.
- Where
- United States.
- Why
- To ensure applicants meet naturalization requirements.
- Policy Change Date
- August 22
- Affected Group
- Green card holders seeking citizenship
- Investigation Scope
- Residence and employment, 5 years prior to application
- Evidence Sources
- Neighbors, employers, co-workers, business associates
- Governing Law
- Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) Section 335(a)