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2.0

USCIS restricts naturalization for noncitizen current and former military service members

  1. Original Date Announced

    September 26, 2025

    USCIS announces that it has revised the USCIS Policy Manual such that "uncharacterized" discharges from military service on or after August 1, 2024, will no longer qualify as military separation under "honorable conditions," which is a required condition for a noncitizen military service member to naturalize. Based on EO 14148, USCIS rescinds guidance which required USCIS to coordinate with CBP to offer naturalization interviews and oath ceremonies for former service members at ports of entry. Instead, former service members located outside the U.S. must seek a visa or parole to enter the U.S. for a naturalization interview.

    This update applies to all naturalization applications pending or filed on or after September 26, 2025, and supersedes any related prior guidance.

    Trump 2.0 [ID #2006]

    2025.09.26 USCIS Policy Alert 2025-22 - Naturalization Guidance for Alien Service Members 2025.09.26 USCIS Policy Manual: Vol. 12 Part I, ch 1-5
  2. Effective Date

    September 26, 2025

Current Status

None

Original Trump Policy Status

Status: Final/Actual
Trump Administration Actions: Agency Directive Change in Practice
Subject Matter: Naturalization
Agencies Affected: USCIS CBP

Associated or Derivative Policies

Pre Trump-Era Policies

To provide information, corrections, or feedback, please email IPTP.feedback@gmail.com

To provide information, corrections, or feedback, please email IPTP.feedback@gmail.com