The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced a new policy on August 25, allowing its officers to conduct interviews with neighbors, employers, and coworkers of naturalization applicants.
Effective immediately, as stated in Policy Alert PA-2026-10, this measure applies to both pending and new applications from that date onward.
While "neighborhood investigations" have been legally permissible since 1952 under section 335(a) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, they were discontinued in 1991 by USCIS's predecessor due to inefficiency concerns.
Since their discontinuation, the government has relied solely on biometric checks and FBI criminal databases for background verification.
USCIS Extends Investigation Scope
The recent alert formalizes in the Policy Manual a process initiated a year earlier when agency director Joseph Edlow issued a memorandum to reinstate these investigations.
Under the new directive, USCIS officers are empowered to gather information that extends beyond criminal history checks. These verifications may include examining family status—such as marriages and divorces—social activities, associations, habits, and an applicant's credibility, sincerity, and loyalty to constitutional principles. Changes in USCIS processes could significantly impact your path to citizenship.
Decision-Making and Investigation Waivers
Deciding to conduct or waive an investigation is not automatic; the Fraud Detection and National Security Directorate will evaluate each case individually. If sufficient evidence is available, the agency may choose not to proceed with the investigation.
The policy alert also introduces a way to minimize the likelihood of being investigated. Applicants may voluntarily submit personal testimonials or reference letters, preferably from U.S. citizens who are not relatives, to demonstrate eligibility, character, allegiance to the United States, and adherence to the Constitution.
USCIS will consider these letters when deciding whether to exempt an applicant from further investigation. Applicants lacking supporting evidence could face more extensive scrutiny, potentially involving visits to their neighborhood or workplace. Employers should also be prepared, as the agency may contact them to verify employment dates, positions, and the worker's character.
Community and Legal Concerns
Concerns have emerged among lawyers and the community. "I worry that personal privacy is vanishing for those seeking citizenship. You'll be handing over all your information to the government, which may not be necessary to determine eligibility," one attorney told Univision.
Another lawyer highlighted potential application delays: "What delays will this cause? Applications already take over a year to process. If these investigations are added, it could be one or two years more..."
Erik Finch, a former USCIS official, pointed out that "without clear standards, two applicants with nearly identical cases could face very different levels of scrutiny."
Doris Meissner, who served as INS commissioner under President Clinton, warned that the policy might create an "intimidating atmosphere that discourages people from seeking naturalization."
Impact of Immigration Policy Changes
This policy falls under Executive Orders 14159 and 14161 by President Donald Trump, mandating the faithful execution of immigration laws and uniform verification standards for any foreign national seeking immigration benefits.
This formalization adds to recent restrictions: in August, USCIS also tightened initial evidence requirements, allowing for application denials without first issuing a Request for Evidence. In July, it made status adjustment interviews more stringent.
For the Cuban community, one of the most active in naturalization processes, these changes are particularly significant, especially following the resumed citizenship processes for Cubans confirmed in July.
Edlow defended the measure: "Americans should be reassured that USCIS is committed to ensuring that foreign nationals possess good moral character, adhere to U.S. constitutional principles, and are well-disposed to the good order and happiness of the United States."
However, attorneys do not rule out the possibility that the policy may be challenged in court.
Stay updated on all immigration procedures, requirements, and policy news in our U.S. Immigration section.
FAQs on USCIS Neighborhood Investigations
What is the scope of USCIS neighborhood investigations?
USCIS neighborhood investigations can examine family status, social activities, associations, habits, and an applicant's credibility, sincerity, and loyalty to constitutional principles, beyond just criminal background checks.
Can reference letters help in avoiding a USCIS investigation?
Yes, applicants can submit reference letters from U.S. citizens who are not relatives to demonstrate eligibility, character, and allegiance to the United States, potentially reducing the likelihood of further investigation.
How could the new policy affect the naturalization process timeline?
The new policy could lead to extended processing times, as additional investigations may be required, potentially delaying applications by one to two years or more.