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Call Us Today

630-392-8101 | 630-392-8101
info@kasturilaw.com

In August 2025, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issued Policy Memorandum PM-602-0188, updating how officers evaluate good moral character (GMC) for naturalization applicants. The new policy reinstates a more balanced and holistic approach, directing adjudicators to consider broader perspectives and look beyond isolated incidents or rigid criteria. Instead, USCIS now instructs officers to consider an applicant’s entire record of conduct, community contributions, and overall integrity when determining citizenship eligibility.

This marks a shift away from the narrower interpretations used in recent years, when even minor mistakes could have disproportionate consequences. The revised guidance reflects a renewed emphasis on fairness and humanity in the naturalization process.

Naturalization Decisions

What “Good Moral Character” Means Under the New Guidance

USCIS policy has always required that naturalization applicants demonstrate good moral character during the statutory period preceding their application, typically the past five years (or three years for those married to U.S. citizens). PM-602-0188 clarifies that GMC is not limited to the absence of wrongdoing but also includes evidence of positive behavior and rehabilitation.

Under the updated policy, adjudicators are encouraged to:

  • Evaluate both negative and positive factors, not just misconduct.
  • Recognize mitigating circumstances, such as age, context, or rehabilitation.
  • Consider community service, family responsibilities, or moral growth as indicators of character.
  • Weigh the totality of the applicant’s behavior, rather than applying a checklist approach.

This broader interpretation aims to prevent otherwise qualified applicants from being denied solely based on technical or outdated definitions of “bad conduct.”

Why This Matters for Naturalization Applicants

The change has significant implications for individuals who may have past issues on record, such as minor criminal offenses, unpaid taxes, or lapses in judgment that do not reflect who they are today. Under the previous framework, even a single misstep could cast a long shadow. The new memo encourages officers to assess whether applicants have demonstrated remorse, rehabilitation, and consistent good behavior since the incident.

Examples of positive factors that may now help offset earlier issues include:

  • Long-term employment or volunteer service.
  • Evidence of paying taxes and meeting financial obligations.
  • Character references from employers, clergy, or community leaders.
  • Stable family relationships and support for dependents.

Applicants who have made genuine efforts to correct mistakes or give back to their communities may now find USCIS more receptive to their petitions.

Preparing for a Holistic Review

Naturalization remains a discretionary process, and the new memo emphasizes the importance of preparation more than ever. Applicants should gather both factual and character-based evidence to show how they meet the standard of good moral character. Working with an immigration attorney can help identify potential red flags and highlight mitigating or positive factors before the interview.

At Kasturi Law, our Chicago immigration attorney, Shobhana Kasturi, helps clients navigate every stage of the naturalization process with care and precision. We proudly represent individuals throughout Illinois, including those in Arlington Heights, Aurora, Champaign, Naperville, Schaumburg, and the surrounding areas of Cook County.

You can meet with us in person, by phone, or via Zoom—whatever works best for you. To take the next step toward citizenship, schedule a 30- or 60-minute consultation today using our online calendar or contact our immigration law firm directly for personalized guidance.