This archive report was first published on 14 December 2019.
On December 10, 2019, the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) updated its policy manual to include a new directive regarding Driving Under the Influence (DUI) convictions.
According to the updated policy, immigrants with two or more DUI convictions may be deemed ineligible for immigration benefits, including US citizenship.
Permanent residents seeking naturalization must demonstrate good moral character, which USCIS defines as conduct meeting the standards of average citizens in their community.
Green card holders applying for naturalization must show good moral character for 5 years (or 3 years if applying as a spouse of a US citizen) prior to filing for citizenship, though USCIS can examine an immigrant's history throughout their life.
