When you have applied for U.S. citizenship, you must go through an interview with an officer from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The purpose of this interview is to verify your identity, provide information about your background and character, and ensure that you are willing to take an Oath of Allegiance to the United States. Going through the interview process is a requirement of becoming a citizen of the U.S. and if you do not have an interview with USCIS, your petition to become a citizen will be denied.
Preparing for your citizenship interview and ensuring that you have all required documentation in place can be a difficult and lengthy process. Enlisting the services of an experienced immigration attorney can be useful in making the naturalization process easier to understand. A qualified immigration lawyer can answer your questions, help procure your necessary documentation, and fully prepare you for your citizenship interview.
Documents to Bring to Your Citizenship Interview
You should be sure to bring the following documents to your citizenship interview:
- Your Permanent Resident or Alien Registration Card
- Your passport (even if expired)
- State Identification Card
- Reentry Permits (if you have any)
- Two additional passport-style photographs
USCIS may also ask you to bring additional documents to your citizenship interview. If USCIS asks for additional documents, those documents will be listed on your appointment letter. If you fail to bring any or all of these documents to your interview, then your case may be delayed or even denied altogether.
Questions You Will Answer During Your Citizenship Interview
During the course of your citizenship interview, a USCIS officer will ask for your identification documents and place you under oath. You may be asked a series of questions about the following topics:
- Your residence and how long you have lived there
- Your background
- Your character
- Your knowledge and devotion to the U.S. Constitution
- Your willingness to swear allegiance to the U.S.
You should be prepared to answer other questions, as well, about your eligibility to become a citizen of the U.S. and the information that you have provided on your application.
Consult an Immigration Attorney for Help
Preparing for your citizenship interview can be intimidating and difficult, especially if you don’t know what to expect. Consulting with an attorney who is familiar with USCIS procedures in your area is the best way to ensure that you are properly prepared for your interview and have the best chance of success in becoming a U.S. citizen.