The White House has announced significant changes to the naturalization process for green card holders. These updates, set to take effect on October 20, are aimed at enhancing the scrutiny of citizenship applicants.
New Role of “Homeland Defenders”
Stephen Miller, Deputy Chief of Staff at the White House, revealed that the administration is hiring “homeland defenders.” Their role will be to conduct interviews for green cards, work visas, and citizenship applications. This announcement was made public through a post on X by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
Key Features of the New Position
- Interviews for green cards, work visas, and citizenship
- Focus on identifying potential exploits of the immigration system
- Language in the call for applicants suggests a protective stance on U.S. culture
Changes to Naturalization Process
The updates include a stricter application process for those seeking to obtain U.S. citizenship. Some of the major changes are:
- Expansion of the civics test, which assesses knowledge of U.S. history and government
- Increased background checks for applicants
- Assessment of “good moral character,” focusing on positive contributions to society
- Possibility of “neighborhood investigations” for thorough evaluations
Concerns About the New Approach
Critics have expressed concerns about the implications of the language used in Miller’s announcement. They argue that it casts potential applicants in a suspicious light. Doris Meissner from the Migration Policy Institute noted that the rhetoric may imply that applicants could have questionable intentions regarding their eligibility for naturalization.
Timeline of Implementation
These new procedures are scheduled to be implemented on October 20, marking a significant shift in how citizenship applications will be vetted by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Next Steps for Applicants
Individuals interested in applying for citizenship should prepare for these changes, which may involve additional scrutiny and a more rigorous evaluation process. The administration emphasizes a commitment to ensuring that new citizens align with American values and contribute positively to the country.
