Clear Past and Present Records Now Essential for U.S. Citizenship

The U.S. government has reinforced that applicants for green cards and citizenship must have a clean record and demonstrate good moral character. Individuals with a criminal history or misleading information on their applications risk being denied or deported.

Authorities will now verify all details provided by applicants, including information from workplaces and neighbours. Immigration officials will conduct thorough background checks to ensure applicants are truthful about employment, residence, and other personal information. Providing false details or engaging in fraud may lead to denial of immigration status and legal consequences.

Previously, verification focused on an applicant’s workplace and residence. Under the updated guidelines, all pending and new applications will undergo more comprehensive scrutiny. This includes confirming the applicant resides at the declared address and has no involvement in criminal activities, both in the U.S. and abroad. Applicants must notify USCIS within 10 days of any address changes, which can be done online.

Immigration experts stress the importance of honesty in the application process. “Applicants must submit accurate documents and truthful information. Any fraud or misrepresentation can result in severe consequences,” said one attorney.

With these changes, the U.S. aims to ensure that only individuals of good character are granted permanent residency or citizenship, reinforcing the integrity of its immigration system.