A U.S. citizenship interview is the naturalization appointment where an officer reviews your Form N-400 and tests English and civics when required. This guide is for lawful permanent residents preparing for the interview who want to know what happens, what questions are common, what to bring, and how to study. Requirements can vary based on age, time as a permanent resident, and case history.
Immigration rules and procedures can change, so follow the instructions on your interview notice.
What Is the Naturalization Interview?
The naturalization interview is the meeting where a U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services officer reviews your N-400, checks your identity, administers any required tests, and decides whether you meet the requirements. The result may be approval, a continuance for more information or testing, or a denial.
Who Must Attend a U.S. Citizenship Interview?
Most naturalization applicants must attend an in-person interview. Some applicants may qualify for limited English or civics test exemptions because of age or a qualifying disability, but an interview is still commonly required.
What Happens During a U.S. Citizenship Interview?
A citizenship interview usually follows the same sequence.
- Check-in and document review: You check in and present your notice and identification.
- Oath to tell the truth: You confirm you will answer truthfully.
- Application questions: The officer reviews N-400 details such as addresses, employment, travel, and background answers.
- English test (if required): Speaking is evaluated during the interview; reading and writing are tested with short prompts.
- Civics test (if required): The officer asks civics questions from an official list.
- Possible outcomes: You may be approved, continued for evidence or a retest, or denied.
Common U.S. Citizenship Interview Questions
Questions About Your Application (Form N-400)
These questions confirm your information and whether your form remains accurate.
- What is your full legal name?
- When and where were you born?
- What is your current address?
- Have you traveled outside the U.S.?
- Are all answers on your application correct?
English Language Test Questions
These items reflect how English is assessed.
- Reading simple sentences during the reading test
- Writing dictated sentences during the writing test
- Speaking during the interview while answering questions
U.S. Civics Test Questions
The civics test evaluates knowledge of U.S. history and government.
- What is the supreme law of the land?
- Who is the Commander in Chief of the military?
- What are the first ten amendments called?
- Who was the first President of the United States?
- When do we celebrate Independence Day?
How Many Civics Questions Are Asked and What Is the Passing Score?
Up to 10 civics questions may be asked, and you generally need 6 correct answers to pass. The questions come from an official list, so studying that list and practicing answers out loud is effective.
Documents to Bring to Your U.S. Citizenship Interview
Bring the documents listed on your notice plus core identity and travel documents.
- Interview appointment notice
- Green Card (Form I-551)
- Government-issued ID
- Passports and travel documents
- Additional documents if requested
Study Tips for U.S. Citizenship Interview Questions
Use official USCIS study materials
Use the official civics list and study guides, so the wording and topics match the test.
Take practice tests
Practice civics questions out loud and do a few reading and writing examples.
Review your N-400 carefully
Review addresses, travel dates, and key yes or no answers so your interview answers match your filing.
Practice English daily
Practice speaking, reading, and writing in short sessions to build comfort.
Use flashcards or mock interviews
Use flashcards for civics and do a mock interview using your N-400.
Who Qualifies for English or Civics Test Exemptions?
Some applicants qualify for exemptions based on age and years as a permanent resident, and some qualify for a medical disability exemption with proper documentation. Some applicants may also qualify for language accommodations.
What Happens After the U.S. Citizenship Interview?
After the interview, you may be approved, continued for additional review, or denied.
- If approved: You receive an oath ceremony notice.
- At the ceremony: You take the Oath of Allegiance.
- After the oath: You receive a Certificate of Naturalization.
Common Mistakes to Avoid During a Naturalization Interview
- Guessing instead of asking for clarification
- Contradicting N-400 information
- Bringing incomplete documents
- Overthinking simple questions
Key Takeaways
- The interview reviews Form N-400 and determines naturalization eligibility.
- English and civics tests apply to many applicants, with limited exemptions.
- Civics is up to 10 questions, and 6 correct answers generally passes.
- Bring your notice, Green Card, ID, and travel documents.
- Study civic education with official materials and review your N-400 for consistency.
For more immigration guidance and resources, visit ImmigrationQuestion.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does the citizenship interview last?
Many interviews last about 20 to 60 minutes depending on testing and case complexity. Some take longer if the officer needs to clarify application details. - What documents should I bring to my U.S. citizenship interview?
Bring your interview notice, Green Card, government-issued ID, and passports or travel documents. Also bring any documents specifically requested on your appointment notice. - What happens if I fail part of the citizenship interview?
If you do not pass the English or civics portion, you may be scheduled for a retest on the part you did not pass. A retest does not automatically mean denial. - Can my interview be delayed or rescheduled?
Yes, but you should follow the instructions on your appointment notice as early as possible. Keep copies of any request and monitor for a new date. - What happens after I pass the interview?
If approved, you will receive an oath ceremony notice with the date, time, and location. You become a U.S. citizen after taking the Oath of Allegiance and receiving your Certificate of Naturalization.
