The Donald Trump administration is planning further changes to the US citizenship process, including possible new educational standards for Green Card holders seeking naturalisation.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has listed a proposed rule titled Protecting the Integrity of Naturalization Through Enhanced Educational Standards. However, the detailed proposal has not yet been published, and no new requirements under this initiative have taken effect.
According to the rulemaking summary, DHS plans to amend the regulations governing the educational requirements for naturalisation and establish a clearer framework for applicants to demonstrate that they meet those standards.
“With this proposed rule, USCIS is seeking to further enhance the integrity of the naturalization test,” the department said in its regulatory agenda.
DHS is also considering giving US Citizenship and Immigration Services greater flexibility in how naturalisation tests are administered. This could potentially include allowing approved third parties to administer parts of the test.
What Are the Current Citizenship Test Requirements?
In most cases, a person must be at least 18 years old and have held lawful permanent resident status for at least five years before applying for naturalisation. The qualifying period is generally three years for certain applicants married to US citizens.
Applicants must also meet continuous residence, physical presence and other eligibility requirements.
During the naturalisation interview, most applicants must take English and civics tests unless they qualify for an exemption or accommodation.
The English test evaluates an applicant’s ability to speak, read and write basic English. The civics test examines knowledge of US history and government.
USCIS has already introduced a revised 2025 civics test for applicants who file Form N-400 on or after October 20, 2025.
What More Does DHS Want to Change?
DHS says existing regulations require applicants to demonstrate knowledge of English, US history and the principles and structure of the American government.
However, the department argues that the regulations do not provide enough detail about precisely how applicants should satisfy these educational requirements.
The proposed rule is expected to establish clearer standards and a formal framework for evaluating applicants.
According to DHS, the possible changes are intended to strengthen the naturalisation process, encourage the assimilation of lawful immigrants and promote attachment to the US Constitution, laws and founding principles.
The department is also examining whether USCIS should have more flexibility in administering the test. At present, the English and civics tests are generally conducted by a USCIS officer as part of the naturalisation interview.
Under the proposed framework, USCIS could potentially modify this process and permit third-party administration in certain circumstances.
No New Rule Has Taken Effect Yet
Immigration attorney Gabriella Walsh stressed that the initiative remains only a proposed rule.
No changes have yet been implemented under this proposal, and the complete details will not be known until DHS publishes a formal Notice of Proposed Rulemaking.
Once the proposed rule is officially published, it is generally expected to explain the new standards, who would be affected, when they could take effect and whether the public will be allowed to submit comments.
Until then, applicants should continue following the citizenship test requirements and preparation guidance currently published by USCIS.
