Getting on the path to becoming a naturalized U.S. citizen is a big step for immigrants but there’s an important requirement along the way which is you have to show good moral character this article tackles common questions about what this means, offering clear advice for those aiming for citizenship.
Question: Will Not Paying Child Support Affect My U.S. Citizenship Application?
Answer: Not Paying Child Support Deliberately Can Cause Problems
If you have a green card and haven’t kept up with court-ordered child support, applying for citizenship gets tricky. The rules (8 C.F.R. § 316.10) say that refusing or willfully neglecting to pay child support can stop you from becoming a citizen based on moral grounds. But there’s a chance to defend yourself, especially with help from an immigration lawyer. If you can prove that you couldn’t pay, despite trying hard, and get your ex-spouse to back you up, you might still have a shot. Otherwise, waiting until your last failure to pay falls outside the period of good moral character, usually five years for most applicants, might be your best bet.
Question: Can Social Drinking Mess Up My Chances for U.S. Citizenship?
Answer: Having a Few Drinks Doesn’t Make You a “Habitual Drunkard”
The citizenship form, N-400, asks if you’re a “habitual drunkard.” This term, though old-fashioned, comes from the Immigration and Nationality Act (I.N.A.). It says you can’t prove good moral character if you were a “habitual drunkard” during the period they’re interested in but being a social drinker, someone who enjoys an occasional beer or glass of wine without causing trouble, won’t label you a “habitual drunkard” according to USCIS. So, it shouldn’t block your citizenship application just based on moral character.
Question: Can Someone Recovering from Alcoholism Become a U.S. Citizen?
Answer: Staying Sober is the Way to Go
If you’re a permanent resident who’s fought alcoholism and stayed sober for a while, you should answer “Yes” to the habitual drunkard question on Form N-400. This question is about habitual drinking, but it doesn’t mean you’ll automatically be denied citizenship. USCIS cares more about how you’ve shown good moral character during your years as a permanent resident, usually five for most people. If you don’t qualify to apply after three years (which is possible for spouses of U.S. citizens), waiting until you’ve been sober for the full five years might be wise. Saying “Yes” to the habitual drunkard question means providing extra evidence, like proof of treatment and statements vouching for your responsible, sober behavior now. If you keep staying sober and making positive contributions to society, your citizenship application has a better chance of success.
Understanding what it means to have good moral character is crucial for those aiming to become naturalized U.S. citizens. While issues like child support and alcohol can pose challenges, they don’t have to stop you. Getting legal advice, providing the right documents, and making sure you meet the required period of good moral character can boost your chances of achieving your American dream.
