In the Bay Area, an increasing number of individuals are expressing interest in citizenship classes, a trend that has intensified since President Trump’s administration implemented stricter immigration measures. According to Glen Olson, program manager at the Immigration Institute of the Bay Area (IIBA), there has been a significant uptick in inquiries about citizenship classes, with many more individuals reaching out for information and assistance. In the first half of 2025 alone, the IIBA reported a doubling of inquiries compared to previous years.
The IIBA, which provides naturalization services in both English and Spanish across various locations including San Francisco and Redwood City, serves to facilitate the citizenship journey for legal permanent residents. Among those newly motivated to apply is Victoria Cecilia Perez, who had been eligible for citizenship for eight years but felt prompted to apply only recently. The introduction of such urgency reflects the sentiments of many who recognize the security that citizenship can afford in light of ongoing immigration enforcement.
Unfortunately, the financial barrier of the naturalization fee, which stands at $760, can deter many from pursuing citizenship, especially for families with limited financial resources. Rafael Belmonte Navarrete, who decided to apply for citizenship after an unsettling encounter with immigration agents, highlighted the pressing need for individuals to secure their status. This sentiment resonates with many, as stories of immigration enforcement continue to surface.
In addition to financial and emotional hurdles, the complexity of the U.S. citizenship test has also increased. Recent changes to the exam have raised the number of civics questions, making the test more challenging for both native and non-native English speakers. Given these adjustments, IIBA now offers mock interviews to help applicants build confidence and prepare effectively.
Experts recommend that aspiring citizens consult with legal professionals prior to applying for naturalization, especially in light of heightened scrutiny by the Department of Homeland Security, which has begun examining applicants’ social media accounts and reinstating neighbor interviews to ascertain community character.
However, the challenges faced by organizations assisting potential citizens have grown. The Trump administration’s cancellation of a $150,000 grant aimed at supporting legal services for naturalization further exemplifies the obstacles these organizations encounter. This cancellation is viewed as part of a broader strategy to dissuade eligible legal residents from seeking citizenship.
Amidst these challenges, last year saw approximately 818,500 individuals take the oath of U.S. citizenship, with an estimated 8 million lawful permanent residents still eligible. Despite the tougher climate and obstacles, support systems like IIBA are steadily working to uphold the naturalization process and help individuals navigate their path to citizenship, offering hope and reassurance in a time of uncertainty.