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Call Us Today

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

The naturalization interview is crucial to becoming a U.S. citizen, and preparing for it can significantly impact your success. It serves as the primary means through which U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) evaluates whether an applicant meets all the legal and procedural requirements for naturalization.

The good news is you do not have to prepare for the interview alone.

Our Illinois naturalization and citizenship attorney and law firm founder, Shobhana Kasturi, has over 27 years of legal experience and a decade of experience representing individuals and families throughout their immigration journeys—including those taking the final steps to become U.S. citizens.

Naturalization Interview

Here are some essential tips and insights to help you navigate the interview process.

How to Successfully Navigate the U.S. Naturalization Interview

Naturalization interviews are conducted by USCIS officers. These officers are trained immigration officials who specialize in reviewing naturalization applications and determining applicants’ eligibility for U.S. citizenship.

Before you attend the interview:

  • Know the Format: The naturalization interview involves examining your application (Form N-400) and taking a civics test. The officer will verify the information you submitted, ask about your background, and test your knowledge of U.S. history, government, and English language ability.
  • Review Your N-400 Application: Be familiar with every detail on your Form N-400, as the officer will ask questions to confirm the information. If there are any updates since you filed, including a change of address or a new job, be prepared to explain them.
  • Practice for the Civics Test: The civics test consists of ten U.S. history and government questions. Study the 100 possible questions provided by USCIS and practice answering them. You must answer at least six questions correctly to pass.
  • Prepare for the English Test: The officer will test your ability to read, write, and speak English. To prepare, practice reading and writing simple sentences in English and be ready to engage in conversation.
  • Be Honest and Clear: Answer all questions honestly and clearly. If you don’t understand a question, politely ask for clarification. Misrepresentation or dishonesty could result in denial of your application.
  • Bring Required Documents: Bring all necessary documents, including your appointment notice, passport, permanent resident card (green card), state-issued ID, marriage or divorce certificates (if applicable), tax returns, and any additional documents requested by USCIS.
  • Dress Professionally: While there is no formal dress code, dressing professionally can make a positive impression and reflect your seriousness about the process.
  • Stay Calm and Confident: It’s natural to feel nervous, but try to remain calm and confident. Take your time answering questions, and remember that the officer is there to assess your qualifications, not to intimidate you.
  • Know Your Rights: You can bring an interpreter if you qualify for an exemption from the English requirement. If you have a disability, you can request accommodations.

If everything goes smoothly, you may be scheduled for your Oath of Allegiance ceremony on the same day or shortly after. Once you take the oath, you’ll officially become a U.S. citizen.

Contact Our Immigration Attorney Today

If you would like help preparing for your naturalization interview, contact our immigration law firm at At Kasturi Law, LLC today to schedule a consultation that suits your needs.

Whether you prefer an in-person meeting, a phone call, or a Zoom session, we are here to accommodate you. You can even schedule a consultation directly using our online calendar, choosing between 30-minute or 60-minute timeframes. We value your time and want to ensure that your immigration questions receive the attention they deserve, helping you move forward confidently.