Trump Reinstates Old-Fashioned Neighborhood Checks in the Hunt for New Citizens

A Forgotten Practice Makes a Comeback

An internal memo from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) reveals that the U.S. will once again be utilizing so-called “neighborhood checks” in citizenship cases. This practice, which has not been used since 1991, is intended to allow authorities to investigate how an applicant is perceived within their local community.

According to USCIS director Joseph B. Edlow, the move is intended to strengthen mandatory background checks:

“Americans should feel confident that we only grant citizenship to people of good moral character, who are committed to the principles of the Constitution,” Edlow told Newsweek.

What Does This Mean for Applicants?

This decision could have significant implications for immigrants. Going forward, USCIS will be able to gather information from neighbors, colleagues, and employers when a person applies for citizenship. Authorities encourage applicants to proactively submit statements from people in their surroundings if they wish to expedite the process.

At the same time, applicants’ online activity and attitudes towards American values will also be assessed—an additional layer that has already sparked debate among lawyers and rights organizations.

Criticism and Concerns

Immigration advocates warn that bringing back old practices could create bureaucratic chaos and place unnecessary obstacles in the path of people who otherwise live law-abiding lives in the U.S. Many have lived and worked in the country for decades, but now risk having a neighbor’s statement become a decisive factor.

Part of a Broader Crackdown

Since Donald Trump and Kristi Noem took office in January, the administration has implemented several stricter regulations. Alongside neighborhood checks, the applicant’s “moral character” and any signs of “anti-Americanism” are now central to the assessment process.

While supporters argue this will increase security, critics fear that legitimate applicants could be excluded on questionable grounds.

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