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Good Moral Character for U.S. Citizenship: Requirements, Examples, and N-400 Tips

When you apply for U.S. citizenship, you must show that you have good moral character. This requirement has existed for many years. In 2025, USCIS updated how officers review good moral character.

USCIS officers now use a more holistic review. They look at both positive and negative factors in an applicant's life. They do not focus only on certain criminal violations.

As of August 2025, USCIS may use more methods to review your case. These methods may include in-person checks. Some people call these “Neighborhood Visits.”

This guide explains good moral character and shares tips to help you prepare your U.S. citizenship application.

What is “Good Moral Character”?

USCIS does not have one specific definition of good moral character. In general, they look for signs that you are a responsible member of your community and that you have not been involved in serious criminal activity.

To become a U.S. citizen, you must show good moral character for a certain period:

5 years before applying, or
3 years before applying if you are married to a U.S. citizen

You must continue to show good moral character until you take the Oath of Allegiance.

Examples of Good Moral Character

When reviewing your Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, USCIS may consider positive evidence that shows you are a responsible community member.

Examples of positive factors include:

Helping your community: Volunteer work, community service, or other ways you support others.
Managing finances and taxes: Paying your taxes and showing that you are responsible with money.
Taking care of family: Meeting family duties, including paying child support if ordered by a court.
Achieving success in work and school: Keeping a steady job or making progress in school.

What Can Prevent a Finding of Good Moral Character?

USCIS carefully reviews any criminal history. Certain criminal convictions may affect your eligibility for U.S. citizenship. If you have any criminal history, it is important to speak with a qualified immigration attorney or accredited legal representative before filing Form N-400.

Examples of negative factors include:

Criminal activity: DUI convictions, drug offenses, unlawful voting, tax evasion, or falsely claiming U.S. citizenship.

Irresponsible behavior: Reckless driving, harassment, or other actions that show poor judgment.

Note about background checks: If USCIS finds missing or inconsistent information, they may do additional background checks.

If you have ever been arrested, charged, convicted, or had contact with law enforcement, consider speaking with a qualified immigration attorney or accredited legal representative before filing Form N-400.

Overcoming Past Mistakes: Rehabilitation

If you made mistakes in the past, you can show that you have changed. People call this rehabilitation.

Be ready to show proof that you have improved your behavior, for example:

Complete probation and follow all court orders.
Pay any overdue taxes, child support, or other court-ordered payments.
Participate in programs that support positive change (like treatment or parenting classes, for example)
Provide letters from people who know you and can describe your character.

Tips for Filling Out Your N-400 USCIS form

The most important rule when completing your Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, is to be honest. Answer all questions completely and truthfully. If information is missing or incorrect, the agency may deny your application. You may find it helpful to talk with a trusted nonprofit legal service provider. You can also speak with an immigration attorney before applying.

Key Takeaways

Good moral character is a requirement for U.S. citizenship.
Most applicants must show good moral character for the 5 years before filing Form N-400.
Spouses of U.S. citizens may qualify under a 3-year review period.
USCIS reviews both positive and negative factors.
Criminal history does not automatically prevent citizenship, but it may affect eligibility.
Honesty on your N-400 application is critical.