Trump Administration Stops Citizenship Ceremonies in Upstate New York

The Trump administration has quietly halted a series of planned naturalization ceremonies across Upstate New York, saying several county courts no longer meet federal requirements to conduct citizenship proceedings.

The move sparked confusion in recent weeks as ceremonies were abruptly canceled without explanation. After mounting inquiries, a U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) spokesperson told Syracuse’s WSYR-TV that the decision followed a review of court authority under the Immigration and Nationality Act.

“After reviewing the jurisdiction of certain New York county courts under the Immigration and Nationality Act, we have determined that these courts do not meet the statutory requirements to conduct naturalization ceremonies,” the spokesperson said. “As a result, USCIS will transition from judicial to administrative ceremonies to ensure compliance with the law.”

Judges Told to Stop, Without Warning

Traditionally, judges preside over judicial naturalization ceremonies held in courthouses, while USCIS conducts administrative ceremonies in agency offices. But many Upstate court officials say they received sudden directives to stop hosting them.

Onondaga County Clerk Emily Bersani confirmed that her Nov. 19 ceremony was canceled without any reason. She also said she has received no guidance on ceremonies scheduled for 2026, including the annual New Americans Day at the New York State Fair.

Lawmakers Push Back

Hudson Valley Rep. Mike Lawler has urged USCIS to reverse the cancellations. In a letter to USCIS Director Joseph Edlow, Lawler said the decision deprives new Americans of a milestone moment.

“My wife is an immigrant – one of the happiest days of our lives is when she attended a Naturalization Ceremony and became an American citizen,” he wrote. “Stealing that same joy from other to-be citizens is wrong, plain and simple.”

What Happens to Federal Court Ceremonies?

It remains unclear whether the policy shift affects naturalization ceremonies held in federal courthouses. The Northern District of New York still lists several upcoming citizenship ceremonies on its website, and a district spokesperson confirmed those events remain scheduled as planned.

For now, hundreds of New Yorkers awaiting their citizenship may face disruptions as USCIS transitions naturalization events away from county courts and into administrative settings.