Do You Qualify for U.S. Citizenship? Why “Good Moral Character” Matters More Than Ever

If you’re planning to apply for U.S. citizenship, you may think that having no criminal record is enough for approval. But under today’s stricter policies, USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services) now looks deeper into your Good Moral Character (GMC).

This means you must prove you are a law-abiding, responsible, and contributing member of society — not just avoid criminal trouble. Here’s what you need to know.

1. What USCIS Reviews for “Good Moral Character”

Even if you were never convicted, certain incidents may require explanation or supporting documents. USCIS looks at your entire background, including:

• 🚔 Arrests / Police Reports — even if charges were dropped or dismissed
• 🧾 Domestic violence, DUIs, theft, fraud, or other negative records
• 💰 Tax evasion, false income reporting, or unauthorized employment
• 🚨 Multiple traffic violations or serious accidents
• ⚖️ Moral issues — such as drug use, gambling, or other conduct concerns

Important: Having a record does not automatically mean denial,
but if you don’t provide a clear explanation, your case could be at risk.

2. How to Prove “Good Moral Character” to USCIS

To strengthen your application, prepare a “Good Citizen File” before your interview. Include:

• Tax Compliance: 5–7 years of tax returns, W-2/1099 forms, and IRS compliance letters.
• Family Responsibility: Evidence of child support, alimony payments, and dependent care.
• Proof of Stability: Employment verification letters, school certificates, leases, or utility bills.
• Case Resolutions: Final court dispositions, payment receipts for fines, proof of probation completion, and related legal documents.

Pro Tip:

• Provide certified translations for any non-English documents.
• At your interview, only share facts you are certain about — never guess or speculate.

3. Why a Skilled Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Make a Difference

If you’ve ever had any police or court involvement, you should not handle it alone. An experienced criminal defense attorney can:

• ✅ Check & organize your entire record to ensure accuracy and avoid mistakes
• ✅ Prepare legal opinion letters & explanation statements to minimize the immigration impact
• ✅ Seal or expunge criminal records if you qualify
• ✅ Advise you on the immigration consequences of plea deals or settlements
• ✅ Communicate directly with USCIS on your behalf to protect your case

Many naturalization applicants are denied simply because they answered interview questions incorrectly or failed to prepare proper documents.
Having a lawyer gives you the best chance to avoid delays, denials, or even deportation proceedings.

4. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: My DUI from 10 years ago was dismissed. Will it still affect my application?
A: It depends on your case. Provide proof of completion for any required courses, evidence of rehabilitation, and show stable employment and a clean record since then.

Q2: Can I apply for naturalization if I’m still on probation?
A: It’s not recommended. Wait until your probation is complete, then prepare strong evidence demonstrating your good moral character.

5. Perliss Law Firm — Your Trusted Legal Partner

At Perliss Law Firm, we specialize in criminal defense and naturalization cases where criminal history may affect your citizenship application. We provide:

• 🔹 Comprehensive background checks and risk assessments
• 🔹 Legal opinion letters & case explanation statements
• 🔹 Record sealing, expungement, and interview strategies

Protect your future and maximize your approval chances — let us help you prepare your strongest possible case.