Immigration Insights

Getting Ready for Your Citizenship Interview: What to Expect

Article by Scott D. Pollock & Associates, P.C. staff

02/06/2024

Congratulations! You’re taking a big step toward becoming a United States citizen! You may feel excited, nervous, or a little bit of both. Don’t worry, that’s normal. This article will give you a peek into what to expect at your citizenship interview. We want to help you feel confident and ready to shine.

The Three Parts of the Citizenship Interview: Speaking, Reading, and Writing

Know what to expect so you feel as prepared as possible on your big day. Let’s explore the three-part test evaluating your speaking, reading, and writing abilities.

Talking it Out

During your interview, you will chat with a USCIS (United States Citizenship and Immigration Service) officer. The officer will ask you questions about U.S. history and government. Think of it as your chance to show off what you’ve learned about your new home. USCIS will determine your speaking eligibility for using form N-400, Application for Naturalization.

The officer will use either the 2020 or 2008 civics test. Don’t worry, you won’t take both. For the 2020 test, the officer will ask 20 questions from a list of 128, and you must get 12 right. For the 2008 test, you’ll be asked 10 questions from a list of 100, and you must get six answers correct.

This test is just a chance to share your knowledge of the U.S. Relax, be yourself, and have fun showing everyone you’re ready to become a citizen.

Read it Loud and Clear

Next, you will be tested on your reading skills. The officer will show you three different sentences, and you will pick one and read it out loud. Remember, to pass this part, you only need to get one sentence correct, so relax and take your time. Practice makes perfect, so keep reading, and you’ll be a reading champion in no time.

Writing Your Way to Citizenship

Lastly, it’s time to show off your writing skills. The officer will give you three sentences again, and like before, you only need to write one correctly. Neatness counts, so take your time.

Preparation Is Key

Whether you’re taking the 2020 Civics test or the 2008 version, the attorneys at Scott D. Pollock & Associates, P.C. are here to help you study and conquer your exam questions. The speaking, reading, and writing sections can be a scary part of your naturalization journey, but with our help, you can go into your exam with confidence. Reach out today to learn more about our team and how we can guide you through your test questions.

Interview Questions

Stepping into the room for your naturalization interview might feel intense, but remember, it’s part of your journey toward becoming a U.S. citizen. Plus, you can also have your lawyer present for clarification and help as needed. Here’s a peek at what you can expect in the interview questions portion:

Warm-Up

Expect USCIS officers to begin with questions to ease you into the formal interview. Questions like “How are you today?” are common. You’ll then take an oath, promising to answer truthfully. They will ask:

“Do you understand what the word ‘oath’ means?”
“Do you swear to tell the truth and nothing but the truth…?”

Personal Spotlight

Be prepared for questions about your age, name, family details, and physical features. These questions help verify your identity and background. Expect questions like:

How old are you?
Are you keeping your legal name?
Where were you born?
How old are your children?
What are your family member’s names and birthdates?
What color is your hair?
What is your race/ethnicity?

Immigration Journey

Questions about your residency, green card, and travel history may come into play. Remember dates, durations, and reasons for trips outside the US. You could get questions like:

Have you taken trips that have lasted six months or longer?
Where do you currently live, and how long have you been living there?
Does anyone else live with you?
What is your current citizenship?
How long have you had your green card?
When did you last travel outside the United States?
What was your reason for traveling?
What dates did you leave and return to the United States?

Life and Work

Other topics of discussion might include education, employment, and even tax compliance.

Your Motivation and Values

Expect questions about your reasons for wanting citizenship–this is where your desire to become a U.S. citizen can really shine. You can talk about your alignment with American values, such as following laws and supporting the Constitution. You may be asked questions like:

Have you ever claimed to be a U.S. citizen?
Do you obey and agree with the laws of the United States?
Would you be willing to serve in the military if the United States requires it of you?
Do you support the U.S. Constitution?

Your Advocate in the Room

The officer may throw in a surprise term you haven’t encountered in your studies, or the wording of a question may feel a bit confusing. That’s where your lawyer can step in like a friendly interpreter. They know the lingo and legal nuances surrounding these questions, so they can politely:

Ask for rephrasing: “Excuse me, could you please rephrase that question in simpler terms?” This request can help you understand exactly what the officer asked, leaving no room for confusion.
Seek clarification: “Just to be sure, are you asking if…?” This allows the officer to break down the question into easier-to-grasp parts.
Provide context: If a question refers to a specific event or law you might not be familiar with, your lawyer can offer a quick explanation, helping you to answer confidently.

The interview is your chance to show your knowledge and commitment to becoming a U.S. citizen. Having a lawyer to help you understand the questions lets you showcase your abilities. Think of your lawyer as a guide, helping you ace your interview.

Preparation Tips

The big day is approaching, and we’re here to ensure you feel confident and prepared for your citizenship interview. We will help you prepare all your documents and get them in order before the interview. Here’s what you’ll need:

Document Essentials

Interview Notice: This is your golden ticket. Keep it safe, and bring it along–it’s the key to opening the door to your interview.
ID Check: Pack your driver’s license or another state-issued ID—the officer needs to know it’s the real you.
Green Card: Remember that trusty Permanent Resident Card (Form I-551)? Show it off with pride; it’s the proof of your journey so far.
Travel Tales: Dust off those passports and any travel documents used since you became a resident. Your globetrotting adventures might come up!
Tax Time Triumphs: Bring your tax returns; they show your understanding of and compliance with American laws.
Family Matters: If you have dependents, gather documents showing that you support them.

Beyond the Basics

Bringing an immigration attorney to your interview doesn’t just help you tick boxes. Our attorneys can help you with any forms or documents you might need and ensure you’re fully equipped for your interview. With our guidance and your hard work, you’ll be ready to walk in and own your story.

What to Know If Your Spouse Is Coming to the Citizenship Interview

If you’re applying based on marriage, here’s a quick heads-up.

Your Spouse Is Not Required

While your spouse doesn’t have to be at the interview, you’ll need some documents to prove your marriage and your spouse’s citizenship. Here’s what you’ll need:

Proof of Marriage: Show off that marriage certificate! It must show that you’ve been married for at least three years.
Proof of Citizenship: Show documents that prove your spouse has been a citizen for at least three years, like a passport or U.S. birth certificate.

If you’re feeling worried about the questions, relax. Our attorneys at Scott D. Pollock & Associates, P.C. have your back. As family sponsorship experts, we can help you prepare for any “marriage bona fides” questions (a fancy way of saying they want to know your marriage is real).

So, while your spouse is welcome to cheer you on, your presence and the proof above are all you need for the interview.

Special Cases

If you’ve experienced domestic violence, you have options. Our attorneys can guide you through filing for VAWA Immigration or a U-Visa, providing legal protection and a chance to build a safer future. You deserve to feel safe and secure, and we’re here to help you find that peace.

Whether you’re facing unique circumstances or simply want to ensure a smooth naturalization process, our guidance is here for you. We’ll carefully analyze your situation and provide clear step-by-step instructions. We will connect you with the resources you need to get on the path to citizenship with confidence. You’re not alone in this journey. Together, we can make your dream of becoming a U.S. citizen a reality.

Naturalization Result

Upon your interview success, enter the Naturalization Ceremony. Once approved, you will take the Oath of Allegiance, receive your Certificate of Naturalization, and officially become a U.S. citizen.

The Big Day

You’ll receive a date for the ceremony, where you’ll be with fellow soon-to-be citizens, all sharing the same excitement.

Oath of Allegiance

The Oath of Allegiance is your moment to declare your loyalty to the United States. With your hand raised and a voice full of pride, you’ll say the words that mark your official transformation.

Welcome Home

Officials will present you with your Certificate of Naturalization, which declares you a U.S. citizen. Hold it tight; it’s your key to a new chapter filled with possibilities.

Celebrate

Take a moment to soak it all in. Share cheers and laughter with your loved ones and fellow citizens. This day is your reason to celebrate loud and proud!

Your citizenship interview is just the beginning. The Naturalization Ceremony is where your dream becomes reality. Embrace it and take pride in all your hard work.

Don’t Go at it Alone: Your Lawyer’s Role in Your Citizenship Journey

Picture this: You’re walking into your citizenship interview, a mix of excitement and nerves swirling in your stomach. Wouldn’t it be amazing to know you have an expert guide by your side? Someone who can calm your nerves and equip you to ace your interview? That’s where a naturalization attorney comes in.

We Will Help You Prepare

Think of your attorney as your personal citizenship coach. We’ll dive into the interview process with you, help you understand the questions you might face, and practice your responses until you feel confident and ready. There are no surprises, just clear sailing.

Confidence in the Room

Your attorney’s role doesn’t end there. We’ll be right there with you during the interview–a silent advocate ensuring everything runs smoothly. We can answer any questions that might arise. Imagine the reassurance of having someone by your side who knows the ins and outs of the process.

Beyond Your Interview

Your relationship with your attorney doesn’t stop with the interview. They’ll be your trusted resource throughout your entire citizenship journey. Think of your attorney as your citizenship cheerleader, ready to answer questions, address your concerns, and celebrate every milestone.

Ready to Make Your Dream a Reality?

At Scott D. Pollock & Associates P.C., we’ve helped countless people navigate the path to U.S. citizenship. With decades of experience, we understand the challenges and complexities you might face. We’re not just immigration and naturalization lawyers. We’re your partners in achieving your American dream.

Take the first step towards a smoother, more confident citizenship journey. Schedule your consultation with Scott D. Pollock & Associates P.C. today. We will guide you toward your rightful place as a U.S. citizen.

Becoming a citizen is an amazing occasion to celebrate. With the right support, you can celebrate with confidence and pride.