On August 22, 2025, US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced the reinstatement of personal investigations – commonly referred to as “neighborhood investigations” – for individuals applying for US naturalization. This change aligns with Section 335(a) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), which authorizes USCIS to conduct such investigations to verify an applicant’s eligibility.
What Are Neighborhood Investigations?
Neighborhood investigations involve inquiries into an applicant’s residence, employment, and community ties, typically covering the five years prior to filing for naturalization. These investigations help USCIS assess key eligibility factors, including:
- Continuous residence
- Good moral character
- Attachment to the US Constitution
- Disposition toward the good order and happiness of the United States
Why Is USCIS Reinstating This Practice?
Historically, USCIS waived neighborhood investigations in favor of biometric and criminal background checks conducted by the FBI. However, the agency is now exercising its statutory authority to resume these investigations on a discretionary, case-by-case basis. The goal is to ensure a more thorough review of applicants’ qualifications for citizenship.
What Applicants Should Know
- Evidence Submission: USCIS may request testimonial letters from neighbors, employers, co-workers, or business associates who can speak to the applicant’s character and eligibility. Proactively submitting such evidence with the naturalization application may help USCIS determine whether to waive the investigation.
- Discretionary Review: USCIS will evaluate all submitted evidence and make individualized decisions regarding the necessity of a neighborhood investigation.
- Impact of Non-Compliance: Failure to provide requested evidence may result in a neighborhood investigation, which could affect the outcome of the naturalization application.
Implementation and Policy Guidance
This updated policy memorandum will be reflected in the USCIS Policy Manual. While intended to guide USCIS personnel, it does not create enforceable rights for applicants or third parties.
Erickson Insights & Analysis
This renewed focus on neighborhood investigations complements USCIS’s recent update to its Good Moral Character (GMC) evaluation standards. Under the August 15, 2025 memorandum, USCIS has adopted a more rigorous and holistic approach to assessing GMC, emphasizing not only the absence of disqualifying conduct but also the presence of positive contributions to society. Applicants are now expected to demonstrate sustained community involvement, financial responsibility, and rehabilitative efforts where applicable.
Erickson Immigration Group will continue monitoring developments and sharing updates as more news is available. Please contact your employer or EIG attorney if you have questions about anything we’re reporting above or if you have case-specific questions.