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Call Us Today

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

Becoming a U.S. citizen is a meaningful milestone in your immigration journey, but the path through the Form N-400 naturalization process continues to evolve in 2026. Today, applicants face updated requirements, more detailed interviews, and a revamped civics test, all designed to confirm that new citizens fully understand and embrace the responsibilities of citizenship.

If you’re thinking about applying for citizenship this year, it’s important to know what’s involved so you can prepare with confidence and avoid avoidable setbacks.

Illinois Immigration Attorney

Filing the N-400 and Eligibility Basics

To begin, you must file Form N-400, Application for Naturalization with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Most applicants qualify based on having been a permanent resident for at least five years, or three years if married to a U.S. citizen. You must also meet continuous residence and physical presence requirements, demonstrate good moral character, and be willing to take the Oath of Allegiance.

Applicants may file their N-400 up to 90 days before meeting the residence requirement, which can help shorten the overall timeline.

What Happens at the Naturalization Interview

Once your N-400 is accepted, you will be scheduled for a naturalization interview.

During this appointment, an immigration officer will:

  • Review your application and ask questions about your eligibility.
  • Administer the English test, which evaluates your speaking, reading, and writing skills.
  • Administer the civics test to assess your knowledge of U.S. history and government.

You should be prepared to bring your interview notice, green card, valid identification, passports, and any other documents relevant to your application.

The Updated Civics Test

For applications filed on or after October 20, 2025, USCIS implemented a revised naturalization civics test.

Under the updated format:

  • The pool of possible questions expanded to 128 civics questions.
  • During the interview, the officer may ask up to 20 civics questions.
  • Applicants must correctly answer at least 12 questions to pass.

This is a significant change from prior testing formats. Although the subject matter remains focused on U.S. history, government structure, and civic responsibilities, the expanded scope means applicants must prepare more broadly.

Applicants who filed before October 20, 2025, will take the earlier version of the civics test, regardless of when the interview occurs.

English Test and Other Interview Components

In addition to civics, the naturalization interview includes an English test with speaking, reading, and writing components. Officers evaluate your ability to communicate clearly and understand basic English.

Certain applicants, including those who meet age and long-term residency thresholds, may qualify for exemptions or accommodations during testing.

What Immigration Officers Look For

Naturalization officers evaluate applications holistically.

Beyond testing, they assess whether applicants meet all eligibility requirements, including:

  • Continuous residence and physical presence.
  • Good moral character.
  • Honesty and consistency throughout the application.

Preparation and accuracy play a major role in how smoothly the interview proceeds.

How an Illinois Immigration Attorney Can Help

The naturalization process blends legal standards with personal history, and even small errors can lead to delays or additional scrutiny.

Working with our immigration attorney can help you:

  • Confirm eligibility and proper filing timing.
  • Prepare for interview questions and testing expectations.
  • Review your application for inconsistencies or red flags.
  • Understand how updated testing standards apply to your case.

Guidance is especially valuable when policies change or individual circumstances are complex.

Schedule a Consultation With Kasturi Law

If you are planning to apply for U.S. citizenship or want guidance on the N-400 naturalization process in 2026, Kasturi Law is here to help. Our Chicago immigration attorney, Shobhana Kasturi, works with clients throughout Illinois, including those in Arlington Heights, Aurora, Champaign, Naperville, Schaumburg, and surrounding cities.

Consultations are available in person, by phone, or via Zoom, and you can schedule directly through our online calendar, choosing either a 30-minute or 60-minute consultation.

Contact Kasturi Law today to schedule a consultation that fits your needs and take the next step toward U.S. citizenship with confidence.

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