This archive report was first published on 14 December 2019.
On December 10, 2019, the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) released a policy manual update that has significant implications for immigrants seeking citizenship.
According to the update, having two or more Driving Under the Influence (DUI) convictions can make an immigrant fail to prove good moral character, a requirement for naturalization.
Permanent residents applying for citizenship must demonstrate good moral character, which USCIS defines as conduct that meets the standards of average citizens in their community.
Green card holders 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, although USCIS can examine an immigrant's history throughout their life.
