The United States implemented a new rule and modifications to the citizenship process that took effect on October 20, 2025. These measures affect foreigners seeking naturalization who have filed their applications since that date, as stated by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) in its official channels. The main change involves the civics education exam, which now has new criteria, structure, and study materials.
- What are the requirements to obtain U.S. citizenship in 2025?
- When did the civics test for U.S. citizenship change?
- How many questions are on the new U.S. citizenship exam?
- Who is exempt from the English test for citizenship?
- What remains the same in the naturalization process?
- Where can I find updated materials for the U.S. citizenship exam?
- What is the impact of the changes to the U.S. citizenship process?
According to the update published by USCIS on its website and in the Federal Register, the new rule introduces a bank of 128 questions for the 2025 Civics Test, from which the officer will select 20 for each interview. To pass the evaluation, the applicant must answer at least 12 questions correctly. The evaluation process stops upon reaching 12 correct answers or 9 errors, following the standard confirmed by the agency.
The naturalization process in the United States requires applicants to demonstrate proficiency in the English language and knowledge of the country’s history and government. This obligation is supported by the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), as well as regulations and permanent communications issued by USCIS. Previous versions of the exam and existing exemptions for certain specific groups continue to apply to those who filed their applications before the new rule took effect.
What are the requirements to obtain U.S. citizenship in 2025?
To obtain citizenship through naturalization in the United States starting in October 2025, applicants must pass a new civics education exam. According to USCIS, the main condition is having filed Form N-400 on or after October 20, 2025. The test consists of answering 20 questions, randomly selected from a bank of 128, and correctly answering at least 12. The basic English proficiency requirement remains, along with eligibility rules related to residency and conduct.
When did the civics test for U.S. citizenship change?
The change in the civics test took effect on October 20, 2025, according to the official update from USCIS. Any applicant who completes the Form N-400 from that date onward will take the exam under the new institutionalized format. Applications filed before that date remain governed by the 2008 model, which includes a list of 100 questions, of which the officer asks up to 10, and 6 must be answered correctly to pass.
How many questions are on the new U.S. citizenship exam?
The 2025 Civics Test administered by USCIS consists of 20 questions, selected from a list of 128 possible questions. To pass, it is necessary to answer 12 questions correctly. If the applicant accumulates 9 incorrect answers before reaching 12 correct ones, the evaluation ends and is considered a failure.
- General bank: 128 public questions
- In each interview: 20 oral questions
- Passing score: 12 correct answers
- Disqualification: 9 errors
These parameters are listed on the USCIS institutional website and in the Federal Register.
Who is exempt from the English test for citizenship?
According to USCIS, individuals aged 65 or older, who also have at least 20 years of legal permanent residency, may take a reduced version of the civics exam: 10 questions selected from a list of 20, applicable to both the 2025 and 2008 tests. Additionally, there are exceptions to the English language requirement for some older applicants or those with certain medical conditions.
The naturalization process maintains the requirement for basic English proficiency and an evaluation of knowledge about U.S. history and government. (Freepik)
What remains the same in the naturalization process?
Despite the civics exam update, key elements of the citizenship process remain unchanged: basic English proficiency (speaking, reading, and writing), compliance with residency criteria, good moral character, and evidence supporting the fulfillment of legal requirements in the United States. The process retains official exemptions for age and disability, as well as institutional support through study materials on the USCIS website.
Where can I find updated materials for the U.S. citizenship exam?
Official materials to study for the 2025 Civics Test are now available online and publicly through the USCIS institutional website. On this digital platform, applicants can access question lists, preparation guides, simulators, and recommendations for in-person evaluation sessions.
What is the impact of the changes to the U.S. citizenship process?
With the modification, applicants must prepare under new parameters, consult the updated question bank, and ensure they meet the conditions for naturalization under the current regulations. The exclusion of those who have voted irregularly or provided false information in other records remains in place, in accordance with USCIS institutional requirements. Digital resources and open access to materials for both exam versions facilitate the transition and proper preparation for those beginning the process after the change took effect.
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