The Naturalization Interview
Legal Guidance from Sebastian Simon Law Group, PLLC
One of the most important steps to
the citizenship and naturalization process is meeting with immigration officials for an interview. We often receive
questions about how to prepare for the interview and what one might expect.
Sebastian Simon Law Group, PLLC can offer legal counsel on this matter so that you are well-prepared for
your interview.
What to Expect from the USCIS
Always make sure that you have original copies of your immigration materials.
If your documents are in another language, you will need to have those
translated into English. When you first arrive at the USCIS office, there
will be security checkpoints upon first entering the building. You will
then check in and wait until it is the time for your interview.
During the interview, you will be asked the following:
- About your life and background
- Evidence to support your petition
- Where you are currently living and for how long
- Questions about your character
- Your stance on the U.S. Constitution
- Whether or not you are willing to take the Oath of Allegiance to the U.S.
You will need to have these documents ready and with you:
- Alien registration card
- Photo identification (can be state-issued driver’s license or identification card)
- Any passports or travel documentation provided to you from the USCIS
- Any copies of tax statements or other payments that provide proof that
you are not a U.S. citizen or resident
- If you have been arrested, bring your arrest records, or issues of probation,
and other documentation. You should also bring any records that show you
have sealed or expunged prior criminal history.
The immigration official will be asking many personal questions about your
past, particularly if you have a criminal history. Remember that this
is protocol; they are only trying to make sure that you are the best possible
candidate for U.S. citizenship. Be as honest and truthful as possible,
as the USCIS can choose to deny your petition for lying during the interview.
Furthermore, make sure that you have the required documents, as going
without can prevent the delay of your application.
