In a significant shift in the naturalization process, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is reviving what are known as “neighborhood checks” — on-the-ground investigations that may include interviews with a naturalization applicant’s neighbors, employers, or acquaintances. 

According to a recent policy memo, USCIS has instructed officers to determine whether such investigations are warranted based on the applicant’s submitted information — rather than relying exclusively on background checks such as FBI records. 

What are Neighborhood Checks?

Neighborhood checks were far more common in the mid-20th century. From 1802 to 1981, petitioners for naturalization were required to present two witnesses who could testify to their qualifications for citizenship. The requirement of providing witnesses for naturalization was ended by Congress in 1981, and by 1991 neighborhood checks were largely ended because fingerprinting and data verification had become more reliable as technology improved with criminal and background checks.

Under a new iteration of this revived policy, once an applicant for naturalization files their application, an officer may decide to request testimonial letters or conduct interviews with people who know the applicant. According to the memo this is “to fully ensure that aliens applying for naturalization meet statutory requirements, including, but not limited to, full attachment to the principles of the U.S. Constitution and well disposed to the good order and happiness of the United States.”

Why now and what does this mean for applicants?

The change appears part of a broader enforcement posture: the memo states that the previous waiver for the neighborhood check is rescinded and officers must evaluate whether additional investigation is necessary. The practical effect is that more applicants may face deeper scrutiny — and may be asked to proactively submit testimonial letters from acquaintances or coworkers to avoid being subject to a formal neighborhood check. For applicants, this means that things like submitting thorough documentation, verifying addresses, and providing credible references are more important than ever.

Key Takeaways for Applicants

• Proactively supplying credible testimonial letters may reduce your chance of being subjected to this process. 
• Ensure your application reflects your entire residence and employment history accurately — inconsistencies may trigger additional review.
• If you are selected for a neighborhood investigation, it does not mean automatic denial — but it does raise the stakes and requires careful handling.

The expansion of neighborhood‐check authority by USCIS signals a more rigorous approach to naturalization review. Applicants should not view it as an automatic barrier, but rather as a reason to prepare more comprehensively. 

The expanded preparation needed when applying for citizenship is a compelling reason to have a lawyer by your side in your naturalization journey.  At Valverde Law, we help citizenship applicants take a proactive stance — ensuring that their applications are configured to withstand heightened scrutiny and that they are well-positioned for success.