Glossary

Good Moral Character

naturalization and relief concept based on conduct during a required period

What good moral character means

In U.S. immigration practice, good moral character generally refers to naturalization and relief concept based on conduct during a required period. Exact use can vary by agency, form, and case posture.

Why good moral character matters

  • Good Moral Character can affect eligibility, deadlines, status, travel, work authorization, court strategy, or consular processing.
  • Ask where good moral character appears: a USCIS notice, EOIR filing, visa refusal sheet, form instruction, or lawyer memo.
  • Do not assume good moral character means the same thing in family, employment, humanitarian, and court contexts.

Question to ask about good moral character

If good moral character appears in your immigration paperwork, ask what agency uses the term and what deadline or evidence issue it creates.