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Emigration and immigration

Trump Administration Tightens US Citizenship Certification Process

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

The Trump administration has made significant changes to the US citizenship certification process by introducing new regulations, effective for applicants who filed their applications on or after October 20, 2025. The modifications include increasing the number of civics questions, raising the passing score, and permitting tests to end early. The new test, with 128 questions, will cover a broader range of topics, including the US Constitution, the President's and Congress's functions, and significant events in US history. Candidates who previously submitted their applications will continue to take the 2008 test, while some eligible applicants may take a brief 10-question test.

Key Takeaways:

  • The new certification process, effective for applicants who filed their applications on or after October 20, 2025, includes a clause that permits tests to end early, increases the passing score, and adds extra civics questions.
  • The modifications aim to ensure that candidates comprehend all aspects of US civics, including the Constitution, laws, history, and governing principles.
  • The new test features 128 questions, an increase from the previous 100 questions, and covers a broader range of topics.
  • Candidates must respond to 20 civics questions, with a minimum of 12 correct responses to pass the test.
  • Administrators have been directed to terminate examinations instantly if an applicant provides at least 12 correct responses or incorrectly answers 9.
  • Candidates who submitted their applications before October 20 will continue to take the 2008 test.
  • Some applicants who have been lawful permanent residents for at least 20 years and are 65 years of age or older may take a brief 10-question test.
  • English language competency, including reading, writing, speaking, and understanding, will continue to be a requirement for naturalization.

Statistics:

  • 128 questions will be included in the entire pool (Source: USCIS)
  • 20 civics questions will be required for a passing score (Source: USCIS)
  • Candidates must answer at least 12 questions correctly to pass the test (Source: USCIS)
  • 9 incorrect answers will terminate the examination (Source: USCIS)
  • The previous test featured 100 questions (Source: USCIS)
  • The new test covers a broader range of topics, including the US Constitution, the President's and Congress's functions, and significant events in US history (Source: USCIS)
  • Some applicants who have been lawful permanent residents for at least 20 years and are 65 years of age or older may take a brief 10-question test (Source: USCIS)

Sources:

  • Hindustan Times, "US Citizenship and Immigration Services issues formal notification"
  • USCIS, "Changes to the Civics Test for Naturalization"

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