Citizenship Hurdles Pile Up as DHS Puts Taxes Under Microscope
The Department of Homeland Security is more heavily scrutinizing immigrants’ tax records, issuing denials of citizenship for those on IRS payment plans or who have sought filing extensions.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is increasingly looking into immigrants’ tax records as part of a shift in evaluating whether candidates for citizenship meet the "good moral character" standard. This policy change makes participation in tax payment plans or requesting filing extensions a new hurdle for would-be citizens, even those with no criminal records or IRS sanctions, according to attorneys.
The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) introduced this policy after a 2020 memorandum directed officers to adopt a "holistic" approach to evaluating good moral character, including community involvement, educational background, and tax compliance. Previously, tax-related issues were only considered a problem if they involved charges or convictions.
However, the Department now views extensions and payment plans as adverse factors in naturalization applications. This change is seen as a departure from the previous practice where tax compliance was viewed positively. The administration maintains that tax compliance remains a legal requirement but has not changed its stance on the matter.
Critics argue that this policy shift violates federal immigration statutes and regulations, and it may deter immigrants from pursuing citizenship.
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