Many permanent residents may have their dreams frustrated and have to wait up to 5 years to complete the immigration process and become a US citizen.

One of the requirements that has always existed to obtain American citizenship, after completing the waiting period as a permanent resident, is the so-called test of "Good Moral Character". This means that an immigrant has not been involved in justice department processes during the 5 years prior to making a request for naturalization. However, there is a new rule that now broadens the definition of what is "Good Moral Character": it now includes other issues, in addition to immigration or drunk driving. For example, the rule now includes bank fraud, not appearing in court after requesting a bond (known as 'jumping bail'), conspiring to distribute drugs, posing as a citizen without having obtained citizenship, or even not paying taxes.

The new rule aims to make it more difficult to obtain citizenship, and it could prevent naturalization for many permanent residents. Immigrants who have had problems with the justice department would then have to wait at least another 5 years before being eligible to apply for citizenship.