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Call Us Today

630-392-8101 | 630-392-8101
info@kasturilaw.com

The naturalization interview is a crucial step for individuals seeking U.S. citizenship. Conducted by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), this interview is more than just a simple meeting. It is a thorough evaluation of your eligibility for naturalization. The officers assess your understanding of English, and knowledge of U.S. history and government, and ensure your application’s accuracy.

At Kasturi Law, LLC, we emphasize the importance of understanding this process, ensuring our clients are well-prepared for this significant event with the help of our Aurora, IL immigration attorney.

What Should You Prepare Before the Interview?


Preparation is key to navigating the naturalization interview successfully. You should:

● Review Application Details: It is crucial to review your N-400 form (Application for Naturalization) before the interview. This form is the foundation of your naturalization process, and any discrepancies or errors could lead to complications. Ensure that all the information provided is current, accurate, and matches any supporting documents you will present.
● Gather Necessary Documents: Organizing and bringing the right documents to your interview is vital. This includes identification, legal documents, travel records, and additional paperwork.
● Study for the Civics Test: You will be asked up to 10 questions from a list of 100, and must answer at least 6 correctly.
● Practice English Proficiency: Proficiency in reading, writing, and speaking English is essential unless exempted.

Certain applicants may be exempt from portions of the naturalization interview. Exemptions are typically based on age and the length of permanent residence in the U.S. For instance, applicants over 50 years old who have lived in the U.S. as permanent residents for 20 years are exempt from the English test but still must take the civics test, potentially in their native language.

What Should You Expect During the Interview?

During the naturalization interview, the USCIS officer will verify the information on your application, test your English language skills, and assess your knowledge of U.S. history and government. The interview is not just a test but an opportunity for USCIS to ensure you meet all requirements for citizenship.

During the naturalization interview, you can expect a variety of questions primarily focused on verifying the information provided in your N-400 Form and assessing your knowledge of English and U.S. civics.

Here are some common categories of questions:

1. Personal Information and Background
● Questions about your full name, birth date, and birthplace.
● Questions about your current and previous residences.
● Employment history and education.
● Marital status and information about your family members.

2. Residency and Physical Presence
● Queries about your time spent outside the U.S.
● Details on your current and past residences since becoming a permanent resident.

3. Moral Character
● Questions about your criminal record, if any.
● Inquiries about your participation in community services or organizations.
● Any history of deportation or immigration violations.

4. Attachment to the Constitution
● Questions to assess your willingness to take the Oath of Allegiance.
● Understanding of basic U.S. constitutional principles.

5. English Proficiency
● Simple questions in English to test your speaking ability.
● A reading and writing test to assess basic proficiency.

6. U.S. Civic Knowledge
● Questions about U.S. history, government structure, and civic duties.

These questions aim to evaluate the applicant’s eligibility for citizenship and their commitment to the principles and values of the United States.

What Should You Expect After the Interview?

After the naturalization interview, applicants will receive one of three decisions: granted, continued, or denied.

● Granted: A granted decision means you have met all citizenship requirements.
● Continued: If your application is continued, you may need to provide additional information or retake a test.
● Denied: A denial can occur if you fail to meet the requirements.

In any scenario, Aurora immigration lawyers can guide and ensure you understand your options and the best course of action.
Immigration Attorneys for Naturalization and Citizenship

The naturalization interview is a critical step toward achieving U.S. citizenship. Adequate preparation, understanding the process, and knowing what to expect can significantly improve the chances of success.

Our Aurora, IL immigration attorney at Kasturi Law, LLC is dedicated to assisting applicants in navigating this complex process with confidence and ease. Contact us today for personalized guidance and support in your journey to citizenship. Let us help you turn your dream of becoming a U.S. citizen into reality.