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On August 22, 2025, USCIS issued Policy Memorandum PM-602-0189, announcing that it will resume conducting personal (neighborhood) investigations for individuals applying for U.S. citizenship under INA § 335(a).
Historically, these investigations—covering the applicant’s residence, employment, and community ties—were discontinued in the early 1990s in favor of FBI background and fingerprint checks. The new policy ends the blanket waiver of such investigations and reinstates them as part of the naturalization process.
What This Means for CLP Clients Applying for Naturalization:
- Personal/Neighborhood Investigations: USCIS may now investigate the applicant’s place of residence, employment, and surrounding community for at least the five years prior to filing.
- Evidence Requests: USCIS can ask for testimonial letters from neighbors, employers, coworkers, or business associates to corroborate good moral character, residency, and attachment to the Constitution.
- Discretionary Waiver: USCIS retains discretion to waive a neighborhood investigation on a case-by-case basis, but the presumption is that investigations will be conducted unless sufficient evidence is already on record.
- Impact of Non-Cooperation: If an applicant declines to provide requested community evidence, USCIS may initiate a full investigation, potentially delaying or complicating the case.
What Clients Should Do:
- Applicants should consider submitting letters of support proactively with the Form N-400 to strengthen their case and potentially avoid a field investigation.
- Clients with unusual circumstances (frequent moves, limited community ties, or past issues with employers) should be prepared for additional scrutiny.
- This policy heightens the importance of ensuring all aspects of eligibility (good moral character, residence continuity, and constitutional attachment) are well-documented in advance.
Should you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact our office for assistance. We will help implement this new policy guidance into your N-400 Application.
