USCIS Brings Back Neighborhood Investigations for Naturalization

Sailors raise their right hands during a naturalization ceremony

On August 25, 2026, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) published Policy Alert PA-2026-10 , Investigations and Examinations for Naturalization Eligibility. The update puts neighborhood investigations (also called personal investigations under INA 335(a) ) back into the Policy Manual as a regular part of checking who qualifies for U.S. citizenship.

What changed

For many years, USCIS largely waived neighborhood investigations and relied on fingerprint and security checks. The new guidance ends that general waiver. Unless USCIS waives the step for a case or a class of cases, officers may interview people who know the applicant — neighbors, landlords, employers, coworkers, and others — about residence, employment, reputation, community ties, and whether the Form N-400 information checks out.

The investigation usually covers at least the five years before filing. Results can inform the interview and the eligibility decision, including good moral character and attachment to the Constitution.

What this does not mean

A neighborhood investigation is not a promise that every N-400 applicant gets a home visit. USCIS decides case by case (or for classes of cases) whether to conduct or waive one. Biometrics and other background checks still apply.

Applicants may voluntarily submit character reference letters, preferably from U.S. citizens who are not family members. USCIS says it can consider those letters when deciding whether to waive an investigation — they help, but they do not guarantee a waiver.

Why it matters for people studying for the civics test

Naturalization is more than passing the English and civics exams. Officers still look at the full record: residence, lawful permanent resident status, good moral character, and the promises you make in the Oath of Allegiance. Strong study habits for the test still help — they do not replace accurate N-400 answers or the investigation and interview process.

Official sources: USCIS Policy Manual updates , Volume 12 Part B Chapter 2 , and PA-2026-10 (PDF) .