USCIS Resurrects 'Neighborhood Checks' ā Naturalization Vetting Tightened Nationwide
USCIS issued an Aug. 22 memo directing officers to resume INA 335(a) 'neighborhood checks' for naturalization applicants, requiring testimonial letters and reviewing employment history back at least five years. Paired with midāAugust guidance expanding officer discretion on 'good moral character' and broader vetting measures, the directives represent a coordinated, nationwide tightening of naturalization adjudication that may raise denial rates, processing times, and legal challenges.
