Top Story: New U.S. Civics Test Coming for Naturalization Applicants — Starts October 20
USCIS has finalized a new Naturalization Civics Test, which goes into effect for anyone filing Form N-400 on or after October 20, 2025.
The 2025 test includes notable changes:
- The number of civics questions increases to 128.
- Applicants will be asked 20 questions during the interview, compared to 10 on the 2008 version.
- You must answer at least 12 questions correctly (60%) to pass.
- The questions will still be asked orally by a USCIS officer, and no multiple-choice format will be used.
Applicants who file their N-400 before October 20, 2025, can still take the current (2008) version of the test. Anyone filing on or after that date will automatically be scheduled for the new 2025 version.
According to officials, this change is part of USCIS's periodic test review process. They say it aims to better reflect an applicant’s understanding of U.S. civics, but some immigrant advocates worry it could present a barrier for older applicants or those with limited English proficiency.
A Federal Register notice published on September 18 outlines the final implementation and provides official sample questions and study guidance. View the Federal Register Notice →
Other Key Immigration Updates
Courts Rule Against Deporting Children & TPS Termination Blocked
A federal judge blocked the deportation of 76 Guatemalan children, citing insufficient evidence that their parents had consented. In a separate ruling, the Ninth Circuit stopped DHS from ending Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for approximately 600,000 Venezuelans, stating the agency failed to provide a justified explanation. Both rulings reflect growing judicial checks on executive immigration decisions.
ICE Seeks Hundreds of New Offices Across U.S. as Agency Expands
ICE plans to open more than 300 new field offices nationwide and hire over 10,000 personnel. The agency says the expansion is necessary to support heightened enforcement and removal operations. Civil rights groups warn the move signals a more aggressive deportation agenda, especially in communities already impacted by stepped-up immigration enforcement.
EB-5 Investment Visa Cap Reached for FY 2025; Green Card Route Paused Till September 30
The EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program has reached its visa cap for FY 2025. No additional green cards will be issued under the unreserved EB-5 category until the new fiscal year begins on October 1, 2025. Applicants with pending approvals must wait, although set-aside visa categories may still be available for rural, high-unemployment, or infrastructure projects.
U.S. Border Patrol Chief Says Many Arrests in Chicago Immigration Crackdown
In Chicago, immigration-related arrests have surged under a targeted ICE enforcement effort focused on undocumented immigrants with criminal records. Local officials and advocates have raised concerns about profiling and due process violations. The stepped-up activity may increase fear in immigrant communities, especially those unaware of their legal rights or options for relief.
What It Means for Immigrants
- Act Now if You’re Applying for Naturalization: If you meet the citizenship requirements, filing by October 17 lets you take the simpler 2008 test. Otherwise, start studying for the more challenging 2025 version using official materials. Get help applying →
- TPS Holders Gain Breathing Room: The court's decision prevents immediate removal for many Venezuelans, allowing continued work and residence while legal review continues.
- EB-5 Applicants Must Wait: If your I-526 wasn't approved in time, your green card processing may be delayed until FY 2026 begins on October 1.
- Watch for ICE Activity: Communities in cities like Chicago may see increased enforcement, especially for immigrants with prior criminal records or removal orders.
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