The Trump administration is planning to make the U.S. citizenship test more difficult, arguing that the current version is too easy. Officials claim the existing test allows applicants to memorize answers without a true understanding of American civics, undermining the purpose of naturalization.
Joseph Edlow, director of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), has voiced strong criticism of the current test. He told the New York Times that memorization alone doesn’t align with the law’s intent. Edlow supports reforms that would better measure an applicant’s civic knowledge and reflect broader national interests.
Historically, the citizenship test lacked consistency until the Bush administration standardized it in 2008. That version required applicants to answer six out of ten civics questions correctly. Under President Trump’s first term, the test was expanded to include 128 questions, with a requirement of 12 correct responses out of 20.
However, the Biden administration reversed those Trump-era changes in 2021, reverting to the simpler format. Now, USCIS plans to bring back the tougher version, signaling a return to stricter immigration and naturalization policies under Trump’s leadership.
In addition to the citizenship test, Edlow hinted at upcoming changes to the H-1B visa program. He criticized businesses that rely on H-1B workers to cut labor costs, suggesting that such practices hurt American workers. The proposed reforms would favor highly skilled, well-compensated foreign workers who add economic value.
Overall, these actions reflect the Trump administration’s broader approach to immigration—emphasizing tougher standards and stricter eligibility. By reshaping both citizenship and visa requirements, the administration seeks to prioritize individuals who are seen as making meaningful contributions to the country’s civic and economic fabric.
