Naturalization bill sets 80% test score floor and new fraud bans

What does this do?

S 4547 tightens naturalization requirements by raising the civics and English test passing threshold to 80 percent, with at least half the questions drawn from the Constitution, Declaration of Independence, Bill of Rights, and oath of allegiance. Applicants must also complete formal instruction on the meaning of the oath and sign a statement confirming they understood and took it willingly. The bill stiffens fraud consequences, including automatic denial for lying or falsifying documents, permanent bans for cases tied to terrorism, espionage, gangs, cartels, or human trafficking, and a ten-year waiting period for less serious fraud, while increasing prison sentences for naturalization fraud up to 25 years.

Who does it affect?

The bill directly affects people currently applying for or planning to apply for U.S. citizenship through naturalization. It does not change the status of anyone already holding citizenship.

Why does it matter?

Applicants who cannot reach the 80 percent threshold or who have any fraud finding on their record will face denial or lengthy delays in obtaining citizenship. People connected to serious crimes such as terrorism or human trafficking would be permanently barred from ever naturalizing.

Where does it stand?