Archive · 27 Sep 2025
US Citizenship Process Changes: New Test, Good Moral Character
The US government is changing how it decides who becomes a citizen.
Starting in late 2025, people applying for citizenship will need to pass a tougher civics test.
This test will ask more questions about US history and government, and you'll need to answer more of them correctly.
Also, the government will consider whether applicants have "good moral character."
This means they need to be of good standing in the eyes of the law.
Older applicants with long-term green cards have some special considerations, but overall, the process is becoming stricter to ensure new citizens understand US values.
New citizenship applicants will take an updated civics test.
The test will cover US history and government.
Applicants must answer 12 out of 20 questions correctly.
USCIS will consider 'good moral character' in applicants.
Changes are part of an effort to restore integrity to the naturalization process.
- Who
- USCIS and Green Card applicants.
- What
- Changes to the naturalization process for US citizenship.
- When
- Changes are effective starting October 20, 2025.
- Where
- United States.
- Why
- To ensure that those joining as citizens fully embrace US values and principles, and restore integrity to the naturalization process.
- Policy Change Date
- October 20, 2025
- New Civics Test
- 128 questions, 20 chosen, 12 correct answers required
- Existing Applicants
- N-400 form applications on or after Oct 20 must take the updated test
- Good Moral Character
- Applicants must demonstrate 'good moral character'
- Older Applicants
- Applicants 65+ with a 20+ year green card are given special consideration
- Test Retakes
- Applicants can retake the test once, failing twice results in denial