Story perspectives

USCIS Cancels Citizenship Ceremonies for 19 Countries, Sparks Outrage

12/8/2025

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Summary

Story summary

On December 4, 2025, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) canceled citizenship oath ceremonies for immigrants from 19 high-risk countries, including Haiti and Afghanistan.
Many already-approved naturalizations were removed from the line just before the ceremony.
USCIS cited national security and announced a new Vetting Center in Atlanta to enhance processes.
Advocates called the cancellations "unnecessarily cruel" and said they undermine immigrants' sacrifices.

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Story summary

On December 4, 2025, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) canceled citizenship oath ceremonies for immigrants from 19 high-risk countries, including Haiti and Afghanistan.
Many already-approved naturalizations were removed from the line just before the ceremony.
USCIS cited national security and announced a new Vetting Center in Atlanta to enhance processes.
Advocates called the cancellations "unnecessarily cruel" and said they undermine immigrants' sacrifices.