USCIS updates guidance to allow neighborhood investigations for citizenship applicants
New policy alerts reinforce USCIS authority to investigate applicants' neighborhoods, employment, and reputation during the naturalization process.
Immigrants applying for U.S. citizenship may face increased scrutiny under updated guidance from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. The agency has clarified its authority to conduct personal investigations, commonly known as neighborhood investigations, as part of the naturalization process. These measures aim to verify information regarding an applicant's residence, employment, and reputation within their community.
The policy alert, issued on August 25, 2026, updates the USCIS Policy Manual and applies specifically to individuals seeking citizenship through Form N-400. According to the new guidance, USCIS officials have the discretion to determine whether an investigation is necessary after reviewing the evidence in an applicant’s file. This decision is made on a case-by-case basis depending on the specific details found in the application records.
When conducting these investigations, officials may contact neighbors, landlords, employers, coworkers, and business associates. These individuals can provide information about the applicant’s background and conduct to help verify the claims made in the application. The investigation generally covers the five years preceding the filing of the citizenship application, though USCIS may examine a shorter or longer period depending on the circumstances.
Applicants may be asked to provide testimonial letters from people who know them and can offer specific information about their character. USCIS can consider these documents when deciding whether a neighborhood investigation can be waived, but submitting letters does not guarantee an exemption. The agency retains the final authority to determine if further investigation is required based on the evidence presented.
If the agency conducts an investigation and obtains unfavorable information that could lead to a denial, it must notify the applicant. The applicant is then given an opportunity to respond to the findings before a final decision is made. USCIS makes the final determination based on the evidence and the individual circumstances of each case, ensuring due process is followed.