Skip to main content

2.0

USCIS ends public venue participation in naturalization ceremonies in "sanctuary jurisdictions"

  1. Original Date Announced

    March 31, 2025

    DHS will no longer participate in naturalization ceremonies at public venues in cities/counties/states that have "sanctuary" policies limiting law enforcement from cooperating with federal enforcement efforts.

    USCIS instructed employees through an email that: "If an entity located in a sanctuary city requests to host a ceremony, we request that you politely decline the invitation.” It also indicates that "this change will not affect a naturalization candidate’s ability to naturalize," and that USCIS will instead host the ceremonies at their offices, privately-owned venues, or other federally-owned and operated spaces.

    Trump 2.0 [ID #1659]

    2025.03.31 USCIS - Email Directive on USCIS Participation in Naturalization Ceremonies
  2. Effective Date

    March 31, 2025
  3. Subsequent Trump and Court Action(s)

    • April 2, 2025

      2025.04.02_USCIS terminates naturalization ceremony contract with the Heritage Theater

      Naturalization ceremonies will no longer be held at the Heritage Theater in Campbell, California. USCIS terminated its longstanding contract with the theater, claiming that this decision falls under the "termination for convenience of the government" clause in the contract. Reportedly, naturalization ceremonies will now take place in the parking lot of the San Jose field office.

      View Document

Current Status

None

Original Trump Policy Status

Status: Final/Actual
Trump Administration Action: Change in Practice
Subject Matter: Naturalization
Agencies Affected: USCIS

Associated or Derivative 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