Applicants for naturalization must demonstrate that they “have been, and continue to be, a person of good moral character,” according to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). People seeking citizenship have to be able to prove they’ve maintained this standard for five years (or for three years if applying based on marriage to a U.S. citizen) prior to the time of their application. But, conduct from prior to this period could also impact eligibility for citizenship.
Good moral character isn’t just about following the law. Certain conduct that is not illegal, or that does not result in a conviction, may still be considered to show lack of good moral character according to U.S. law.
“This is a very fuzzy concept, and it really depends on the legal context, because while the law defines certain acts that will result in finding a lack of good moral character, it also leaves room for interpretation and discretionary determinations by immigration officers,” said Catherine Picker, senior immigration technical advisor at International Rescue Committee.
Good moral character is a holistic evaluation of your behavior and how well it aligns with society’s ethical and moral standards, according to JQW Law Firm. Good moral character is shown in the absence of serious criminal offenses and in the presence of factors like paying taxes, fulfilling financial obligations, and even your honesty during the immigration process.
For instance, something like failing to pay child support or taxes can be enough to raise concerns. Being dishonest in any part of the application can severely damage your case, even if no crime is committed.
This information is not a substitute for legal advice from a qualified attorney or accredited representative. This story was last updated March 28, 2025.
What counts against good moral character?
Some acts will permanently bar a person from establishing good moral character, while others are considered conditional bars, or only applicable if they occur within a certain period of time prior to submission of an application for immigration benefits.
Some of the crimes that will permanently bar a person from establishing good moral character include:
- Murder
- Drug or firearm trafficking
- Money laundering over $10,000
- Passport fraud
- Perjury
- Crimes of violence or theft punishable by more than one year of imprisonment
In addition to permanently disqualifying someone from establishing good moral character, convictions for certain serious crimes could also make a person deportable. View the full list of permanent bars that designate a lifetime ineligibility to demonstrate good moral character for naturalization.
What are the conditional bars?
Conditional bars could prevent an applicant from establishing a good moral character for U.S. citizenship if they commit certain bad acts during the statutory period. This is typically counted as five years before applying, or three years for those applying based on marriage to a U.S. citizen. Conduct outside this period could also impact the decision if it suggests a pattern of poor moral character.
These bars are not permanent, but they are serious. They are based on specific acts, convictions, or conduct. USCIS officers consider them on a case-by-case basis, weighing both evidence of the act and any extenuating circumstances.
Some conditional bars include:
- False testimony for the purpose of obtaining any immigration benefit
- Two or more convictions for driving under the influence during the statutory period
- Extramarital affair that destroys an existing marriage, unless extenuating circumstances are established
- Failure or refusal to support spouse and children, unless extenuating circumstances are established
- Conviction of two or more offenses with combined sentence of 5 years or more
Unlawful acts: This catch-all includes acts that violate civil/criminal laws — like tax fraud, insurance fraud, false claims to U.S. citizenship, unlawful voting, or voter registration — even if they do not result in charges or convictions.
False claims of U.S. citizenship and unlawful voting or registration: These are particularly serious. However, an exception exists for those who reasonably believed they were citizens and met specific criteria, such as their parents were citizens and the applicant lived in the U.S. before age 16. In addition to being a bar to establishing good moral character, false claims to U.S. citizenship are a ground for removal from the US.
View the full list of conditional bars here.
Even if a particular act is not named in the law as a bar to establishing good moral character, any bad act can still negatively reflect on moral character if it goes against the community’s ethical standards. Applicants must be ready to document, explain, and — where possible — prove reformation or mitigating factors.
If I have a misdemeanor offense, am I automatically disqualified from good moral character?
Not necessarily, but a past conviction can complicate your case, no matter how insignificant it may seem.
A detailed legal analysis of the charge and any possible judgement or penalty are critical to determine what, if any impact it could have on your ability, not only to naturalize, but even to remain in the U.S.
Also Read: How To Become a U.S. Citizen and Prepare for the Citizenship Test
Every case is different, so presenting your situation clearly and honestly with supporting documentation is crucial. That said, anyone who has ever had any contact with law enforcement, even if charges are later dismissed or expunged, is strongly urged to consult with an immigration lawyer before submitting any application for an immigration benefit.
How to prove good moral character
USCIS doesn’t take your word for it. You need to provide evidence that supports your claim of good moral character. This could include:
- Tax returns to show financial responsibility
- Employment records show steady work.
- Community service records to demonstrate civic involvement
- Affidavits from friends and community members who can testify to your character
- Criminal background checks to prove a clean record
Being organized and thorough in compiling your documentation can strengthen your case significantly.
Will the Trump administration apply harsher standards for good moral character?
The Trump administration has not introduced any regulatory or other policy guidance about good moral character to date. However, this could change. As always, prospective naturalization applicants are strongly encouraged to seek advice from a qualified immigration legal professional before submitting their application.
