Trump Administration Expands “Good Moral Character” Standard for Naturalization Applicants

The Trump administration has issued new guidance that significantly changes how U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) officers assess whether immigrants meet the “good moral character” (GMC) requirement when applying for U.S. citizenship.

Donald Trump's approach to immigration has sparked controversy and debate. Critics argue that his focus on mass deportation and border security overshadows other pressing issues in America, such as substance abuse.

The "good moral character" determination has long been a statutory requirement for naturalization and has been judged primarily by reference to listed criminal offenses and disqualifying conduct in immigration law.

In addition to violent crimes, disqualifications could include controlled substance violations, multiple DUI convictions, false claims to citizenship, unlawful voting, or "any other acts that are contrary to the average behavior of citizens in the jurisdiction where aliens reside.

These could be actions that, while technically lawful, may be inconsistent with civic responsibility within the community, such as reckless or habitual traffic infractions, or harassment or aggressive solicitation," the memorandum reads.

Proper rehabilitation will also be considered for those who have engaged in wrongdoing. This could include rectifying overdue child support payments, probation compliance, community testimony attesting to their good moral character, mentoring those with similar pasts, repayment of benefit overpayment or repayment of taxes.