An August 11, 2008 memorandum by the USCIS updates the citizenship/naturalization processing times and provides a status report on USCIS attempts to reduce the processing delays and backlogs that have haunted the citizenship/naturalization application process.

This USCIS memorandum discusses the surge in naturalization applications, its aggressive hiring plans and expanded work hours in an attempt to reduce the application backlogs and delays. The memo also provides citizenship/naturalization application statistics and processing times by the different USCIS offices as of September 2008. [Citizenship/Naturalization Application Delays - USCIS Memo Cites Reduction in Backlogs].

USCIS and Counsel for class members in the class action complaint of Kaplan v. Chertoff, 06-5305 (E.D. PA) reached a settlement on the lawsuit regarding the various delays and backlogs associated with citizenship/naturalization and adjustment of status applications. Under the settlement, class members that have had an application pending for more than six months are permitted to request expedite processing of their petitions.

The USCIS and FBI are also directed to request priority processing of any pending or future security checks. Under the agreement, the social security administration is to identify and contact individuals whose benefits were terminated and those at risk of termination while waiting for a stalled naturalization application. [Class Action Settlement To End Naturalization And Adjustment Of Status Delays].

The USCIS has revised the examination for citizenship and naturalization applicants. The redesigned test focuses on creating a more standardized, fair and meaningful naturalization process. The redesign resulted from a multi-year process of review and pilot program. Naturalization Applicants will begin taking the new test October 1, 2008.

[Click here for a schedule that determines which test you have to take].

[Review details of the redesigned naturalization test]