US Launches New 2025 Civics Test for Green Card Holders

The United States has introduced a stricter naturalisation civics test and increased background checks for citizenship applicants.

The new rules, which took effect on 20 October 2025, apply to lawful permanent residents submitting Form N-400 from this date onward. Applicants must now pass a more demanding civics examination, known as the 2025 Naturalisation Civics Test. 

The updated test requires candidates to correctly answer 12 out of 20 orally administered questions selected from a bank of 128. This doubles the number of questions asked under the previous 2008 format. 

The interview ends once the applicant reaches the required number of correct answers or accumulates nine incorrect responses. According to the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the changes are designed to ensure new citizens have a stronger understanding of US history, government and civic principles.

“These critical changes are the first of many,” said USCIS spokesperson Matthew Tragesser, stating that the measures aim to uphold congressional intent and strengthen national security.

The revised test is part of a broader tightening of naturalisation procedures. USCIS has reinstated stricter vetting measures, including closer review of disability exemptions and greater emphasis on applicants’ moral character. 

Officers are now required to look for evidence of positive contributions to society, not only the absence of criminal activity. In some cases, applicants may face additional checks such as neighbourhood investigations, which can involve testimonial letters from employers, neighbours and other associates.

The Department of Justice has also indicated a stronger stance on denaturalisation. Internal guidance authorises legal action to revoke citizenship from individuals who concealed relevant information or obtained their status through fraud. This includes cases involving financial irregularities, such as underreporting income on tax returns.

Certain exemptions remain in place. Applicants aged 65 or older who have held permanent residency for at least 20 years may continue to take a simplified version of the test. This consists of 10 questions drawn from a separate set and may be completed in the applicant’s native language.

The combined effect of these reforms is a more demanding pathway to US citizenship, with increased scrutiny of both applicants’ knowledge and personal background. USCIS has indicated that further measures will be introduced in the coming months.