The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced the resumption of 'home visits' for immigrants applying for U.S. citizenship, a practice that has been dormant since 1991. This initiative aims to ensure that applicants meet the necessary requirements, including good moral character and commitment to the U.S. Constitution.
USCIS staff will conduct interviews with neighbors and colleagues of citizenship applicants as part of these checks. The agency stated that while home visits will not apply to every applicant, they will use their discretion to determine when such checks are warranted. To mitigate the likelihood of additional scrutiny, USCIS recommends that applicants submit letters of recommendation alongside their applications.
This decision marks a significant shift in immigration policy, reflecting a renewed focus on the vetting process for new citizens. The practice was last utilized over three decades ago, raising questions about its implications for current applicants and the broader immigration landscape.
As the USCIS implements this policy, it remains to be seen how it will affect the citizenship application process and the experiences of immigrants seeking to establish their lives in the United States. For more on related coverage, see our article on recent developments in the political sphere.
