What Happens at the Citizenship Interview?

The interview is the main event of the naturalization process. Preparation makes it much less stressful.

What to bring

• Your interview notice and green card
• Passport(s) and travel documents
• State ID or driver's license
• Any documents listed in your notice
• Certified court records for any arrests or citations
• Proof of marriage and the spouse's citizenship if you applied under the three-year rule
• Tax transcripts if requested

The interview, step by step

1. Check-in and oath. The officer puts you under oath to tell the truth.
2. Review of your N-400. The officer goes through your application and asks you to confirm or update answers about addresses, trips, work, family and the yes/no questions. Your ability to understand and answer is part of the English speaking test.
3. English reading test. Read one of up to three sentences correctly.
4. English writing test. Write one of up to three sentences correctly.
5. Civics test. For applications filed on or after October 20, 2025, the officer asks up to 20 questions from the 128-question bank; you must answer 12 correctly. Testing stops once you reach 12 correct or 9 incorrect answers (New Americans Campaign).
6. Signature and results.

Exemptions and accommodations exist for older long-term residents and for applicants with qualifying disabilities who file Form N-648.

Possible results

• Granted: you may be scheduled for an oath ceremony, sometimes the same day.
• Continued: for more documents (Form N-14) or a retest. If you fail any part, you get a second chance, usually within 60 to 90 days (8 CFR 312.5).
• Denied: you receive a written explanation and can request a hearing with Form N-336.

Tips

• Answer only the question asked, honestly. False testimony can lead to denial for lack of good moral character.
• If you do not understand a question, ask the officer to repeat it.
• Bring proof for anything on your record, even dismissed cases.
• Practice with the official study materials.

After approval

At the oath ceremony you return your green card and receive your Certificate of Naturalization. Then apply for a US passport and update your Social Security record.

If your interview raises issues, such as an old arrest or long trips abroad, consider bringing an immigration lawyer. See also how to apply for US citizenship.

Sources

1. USCIS: Form N-400, Application for Naturalization
2. New Americans Campaign: New naturalization civics test effective 10/20/25
3. Cornell Law School LII: 8 CFR 335.2, Examination of applicant
4. Cornell Law School LII: 8 CFR 312.5, Second opportunity to pass requirements