What to Expect in Your Naturalization Interview

First, be sure to check the time, date, and location of your appointment to ensure that you know where you are going. If you cannot make this appointment for any reason, be sure to leave yourself time to reschedule. Additionally, be sure to arrive with enough time to find your way around the building and pass through security checkpoints. When it is your turn, an officer will begin your interview by having you swear an oath to tell the truth.

The interviewer may review your N-400 form with you, periodically asking you to confirm information such as:

  • Your legal name
  • Your address
  • Your marital status

This may also be done in part to test your English language skills. It is a good idea to thoroughly review your N-400 form at home with a friend or relative. You should also be ready to let the interviewer know of any changes to your situation that have occurred since submitting the form.

Testing Your Knowledge of English and U.S. Civics

You will also be tested on your English writing skills as well as your knowledge of civics. For the English portion, you will likely be asked to construct sentences based on vocabulary from a predetermined list, available through USCIS services. If you do not understand a question, it is perfectly acceptable to ask the officer to repeat a question. It is better to do this than attempting to guess at the officer’s meaning.

The civics portion of the interview can be relatively short and may be provided by a separate officer. Typically, once you answer a specific number of questions correctly, you will be informed that you passed and that portion of the interview will be over. If you don’t pass, you will be able to reschedule for a later date within the next few months.

Gaining U.S Citizenship through Naturalization

If all goes well, your application will be approved and you will receive information regarding the process of being sworn-in. However, in some cases, the USCIS may require more information and time to come to a decision.

With so much on the line, securing a knowledgeable legal advocate from the Law Offices of Elsa Martinez can help to ensure the process goes as smoothly as possible. Our Los Angelesimmigration law and naturalization attorneys possess more than 20 years of experience helping others in your situation and we are only a phone call away.

Call (213) 985-4550 or contact us onlineto speak with a knowledgeable attorney about securing your U.S. citizenship.