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Citizenship Test and Interview

Overview of the civics test and interview process required for naturalization applicants.

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Overview of the Citizenship Test and Interview Process

The citizenship test and interview are part of the naturalization process administered by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This step evaluates an applicant’s eligibility for U.S. citizenship, their knowledge of U.S. history and government, and their ability to read, write, and speak basic English.

Eligibility Requirements for Naturalization

Before applying for naturalization and taking the test, applicants must meet the following general requirements:

  1. Age: Be at least 18 years old.
  2. Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR) Status: Hold a green card for at least 5 years (or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen).
  3. Physical Presence: Have been physically present in the U.S. for at least 30 months out of the last 5 years (or 18 months out of the last 3 years for spouses of U.S. citizens).
  4. Continuous Residence: Have continuously resided in the U.S. during the required period.
  5. Good Moral Character: Demonstrate good moral character (e.g., no serious criminal offenses).
  6. English and Civics Knowledge: Be able to read, write, and speak basic English and have knowledge of U.S. history and government.

Step-by-Step Guide to the Citizenship Test and Interview Process

1. File Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization)

  • Form: Submit Form N-400 online or by mail.
  • Fee: $640 application fee + $85 biometric services fee (total: $725). Fee waivers or reductions may be available for eligible low-income applicants.
  • Processing Time: Varies by USCIS field office, typically 12-18 months.

2. Attend the Biometrics Appointment

  • After submitting Form N-400, USCIS will schedule a biometrics appointment.
  • What to Expect: Fingerprints, photograph, and signature will be collected.
  • Cost: Included in the $85 biometric fee.
  • Duration: 15-30 minutes.

3. Receive the Interview Appointment Notice

  • Once your application is processed, USCIS will send you a notice with the date, time, and location of your naturalization interview.
  • Location: The interview will take place at your local USCIS field office.

4. Prepare for the Citizenship Test

The citizenship test consists of two parts:

  1. English Test:

    • Speaking: Assessed during the interview.
    • Reading: Read one out of three sentences correctly.
    • Writing: Write one out of three sentences correctly.

  2. Civics Test:

    • You will be asked up to 10 questions from a list of 100 possible questions about U.S. history and government.
    • You must answer at least 6 questions correctly to pass.

    Study Materials:

    • USCIS provides free study materials, including flashcards, practice tests, and audio files, available on their website.
    • The test is available in multiple formats for applicants with disabilities or those over 65 years old who qualify for exemptions.

5. Attend the Citizenship Interview

  • What to Bring:
    • Appointment notice.
    • Green card (Permanent Resident Card).
    • Passport and any other travel documents.
    • State-issued ID (e.g., driver’s license).
    • Any additional documents requested in the appointment notice.
  • What Happens:
    • A USCIS officer will review your application and ask questions about your background, residence, and eligibility.
    • You will take the English and civics tests during the interview.

6. Receive the Results

  • At the end of the interview, the USCIS officer will inform you of the results:
    • Approved: If you pass the tests and meet all requirements, your application will be approved.
    • Continued: If additional documentation is needed or you fail the test, your case will be continued. You will have one more opportunity to retake the test within 60-90 days.
    • Denied: If you do not meet the requirements, your application will be denied.

7. Take the Oath of Allegiance

  • If approved, you will receive a notice for the Oath of Allegiance ceremony.
  • What to Expect:
    • You will take the Oath of Allegiance at a USCIS ceremony or a court.
    • After the ceremony, you will receive your Certificate of Naturalization, officially making you a U.S. citizen.

Costs

  • Application Fee: $640
  • Biometric Fee: $85
  • Total: $725
  • Fee Waivers: Applicants with financial hardship may qualify for a fee waiver (Form I-912) or a reduced fee (Form I-942).

Special Considerations

  1. Exemptions and Accommodations:

    • Applicants aged 50+ with 20 years as an LPR or aged 55+ with 15 years as an LPR may take the civics test in their native language.
    • Applicants aged 65+ with 20 years as an LPR may take a simplified version of the civics test.
    • Applicants with disabilities may request accommodations using Form N-648 (Medical Certification for Disability Exceptions).

  2. Language Waivers:

    • If exempt from the English test, you must bring an interpreter to the interview.

  3. Retaking the Test:

    • If you fail the English or civics test, you can retake the failed portion within 60-90 days.

  4. Criminal History:

    • Certain criminal offenses may disqualify you from naturalization. Consult an immigration attorney if you have concerns about your record.

  5. Dual Citizenship:

    • The U.S. allows dual citizenship, but you should check with your home country to understand its policies.

Tips for Success

  • Study Early: Use USCIS study materials to prepare for the civics and English tests.
  • Be Honest: Answer all questions truthfully during the interview.
  • Practice English: If English is not your first language, practice speaking, reading, and writing regularly.
  • Arrive Prepared: Bring all required documents to the interview and arrive on time.

Resources

By following this guide and preparing thoroughly, you can navigate the citizenship test and interview process with confidence. If you have specific concerns or unique circumstances, consider consulting an immigration attorney or accredited representative for personalized assistance.