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2.0

USCIS restricts naturalization for current and former noncitizen military service-members

  1. Original Date Announced

    September 26, 2025

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 Based on EO 14148, USCIS also rescinded guidance requiring coordination with CBP to offer naturalization interviews and oath ceremonies for former service-members at ports of entry.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

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