Applying for citizenship in the United States can be a daunting, high-stakes process. For many individuals, acquiring U.S. citizenship can determine their careers, affect their families, and otherwise change their lives.
“Naturalization” is one of the many ways to obtain U.S. citizenship, and it is the preeminent method when discussing challenges like the citizenship test. United States Citizenship and Immigration Services, or USCIS, governs the naturalization process and administers the standard tests. Below, this article will review what an individual should expect while applying for U.S. citizenship through the naturalization process with USCIS.
Applying For U.S. Citizenship
The N-400 Application for Naturalization is the first step to obtaining citizenship in the United States. The USCIS provides a great deal of resources to assist individuals with the naturalization application, including how to identify the correct form, how to fill out the form, where to file the form and more. Aside from the form itself, applicants for U.S. citizenship through the naturalization process must obtain two passport-style photos, submit all the required materials to USCIS, and pay the mandatory filing fee. The filing fee is currently $640.
Biometric Data While Applying For U.S. Citizenship
In addition to the standard application, individuals seeking U.S. citizenship may also need to record their biometrics with USCIS. The desired biometrics include the applicant’s fingerprints, photo, and signature. Applicants who are requested to provide their biometrics must make an appointment with USCIS to complete the process, and they must bring three items to their appointment:
- Their Permanent Resident Card,
- The appointment notice, and
- A second form of photo ID.
Once recorded, the biometrics may be shared with the FBI so that the FBI may conduct a background check. This is an ordinary practice where biometrics are required.
Notably, recording biometrics with USCIS requires the applicant to pay an additional fee of $85, on top of the application fee. This means that any applicant required to record biometrics with USCIS will pay a total of $725 in fees.
The Naturalization Test
The naturalization test could possibly be the most complicated step in obtaining U.S. citizenship through the naturalization process. The interview consists of two parts:
- An English test
- A civics test.
The Components of the Naturalization Test
The English test examines the applicant’s English language proficiency. It tests three basic skills: reading, writing, and speaking. A USCIS officer will administer each component of the English test in a logical fashion; they will test reading by asking the applicant to read sentences written in English, they will test writing by asking the applicant to write sentences spoken in English, and they will test speaking by conversing with the applicant over the course of the exam. As a result of this last component, it can be helpful for applicants to view the naturalization test as an interview.
The latter test examines the applicant’s knowledge of U.S. history and governance. A USCIS officer will administer the test orally, asking a set number of questions from a larger pool of possible questions. Although the applicant cannot know which questions they will be asked ahead of time, the entire list of possible questions is available online, and applicants are wise to study using the materials that USCIS provides.
Notably, certain applicants may qualify for exemptions for one or both parts of the naturalization test. Click here for more information on the USCIS naturalization test.
What to Bring to the Naturalization Test When Applying for US Citizenship
Similar to when applicants submit their biometrics, applicants must bring several items to the naturalization test:
- Their appointment notice
- Their Permanent Resident Card
- A state-issued ID, such as a driver’s license, and
- All of their travel documents since becoming a permanent resident, including all valid and expired passports
Applicants for U.S. citizenship may also need to bring additional materials to their naturalization test. This checklist from USCIS can help applicants determine what additional materials they may need to bring.
The Oath of Allegiance
Once USCIS approves the application and the applicant passes (or waives) the naturalization test, the application must take the Oath of Allegiance. Although this may sound archaic, it is a mandatory step for every applicant seeking U.S. citizenship. USCIS will schedule a time for the applicant to take the Oath of Allegiance, the applicant will turn in their Permanent Resident Card, and the applicant will take the Oath. Click here to read the full text of the Oath of Allegiance, as well as a brief history and explanation of its contents.
F.A.Qs:
Q: When should I expect the results from my naturalization test?
A: The USCIS has 120 days from the date of the applicant’s naturalization test to submit a final decision.
Q: Where can I practice for the civics portion of the naturalization test?
A: USCIS provides many resources to help applicants prepare for the civics portion of the naturalization test. Click here to access an official practice test.
Contact Pride Legal
If you or a loved one are applying for U.S. citizenship, we invite you to contact us at Pride Legal for legal counseling or any further questions. To protect your rights, hire someone who understands them.
