Indians continue to dominate the U.S. skilled workforce, receiving nearly 74% of all H-1B visas issued between 2020 and 2023. In that period, more than 232,000 Indian professionals secured approvals, according to Bloomberg. This shows how deeply Indian talent powers American tech and business.
But getting a visa is only the first step. For many, the dream is a green card and eventually U.S. citizenship. That journey is now set to become harder. Starting in mid-October 2025, the U.S. government will introduce a tougher citizenship test.
The new exam includes 128 questions, and applicants must answer 12 out of 20 correctly, compared to the earlier 6 out of 10. Unlike multiple-choice tests, answers must be given orally. Topics include deeper U.S. history, the Federalist Papers, the 10th Amendment, and figures like Alexander Hamilton and James Madison.
Beyond the test, the immigration agency will also expand background checks. Applicants will face strict reviews of their personal and professional lives, including neighborhood interviews to confirm “good moral character.”
Officials argue these changes strengthen assimilation. Critics say the rules add unfair barriers for hardworking residents who already contribute to American society.
