On September 17, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) shared a notice about the new 2025 naturalization civics test. This updated test will check how well applicants understand U.S. history and government.
The new change is part of USCIS’s work to make the citizenship process fair and strong. Recent updates from USCIS include:
- Stronger background checks for applicants
- Closer reviews of requests to skip English or civics tests because of disabilities
- Guidance for officers to look at an applicant’s positive contributions, not just the absence of wrongdoing
- A return to local investigations to confirm eligibility
- Clear rules that unlawful voting, voter registration, or false claims to citizenship may block someone from becoming a citizen
Naturalization is the way immigrants become U.S. citizens. Citizenship gives people important rights and responsibilities, such as voting and helping their communities.
USCIS spokesperson Matthew Tragesser said that American citizenship is an honor and should go to people who respect the nation’s values. He explained that applicants must meet all requirements, including learning English and understanding U.S. civics, to show they are ready to join American society.
USCIS says more steps will come soon to protect the integrity of the naturalization process.