Getting a U.S. citizenship is a huge milestone that takes a lot of effort to attain. And the citizenship interview is the part that makes most applicants nervous. The good news is that if you know what to expect, you can prepare accordingly.
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) hasn’t completely changed the process, but there are updates this year you need to know before applying.
Basics of the Interview
If you’ve filed your Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, USCIS will schedule you for an interview. This is where a USCIS officer checks your eligibility and makes sure you meet all requirements for citizenship.
You’ll get a notice in the mail with the date, time, and location of your interview. Show up early. Bring the original versions of the documents you submitted with your application. Ensure you don’t forget anything important.
2025 Citizenship Interview Steps
Here’s the flow of the USCIS citizenship interview in 2025:
- Identity check – The officer will verify your ID and fingerprints.
- Review of Form N-400 – Expect questions about the details you submitted, like your travel history, family, and work.
- English test – You’ll show you can speak, read, and write basic English.
- Civics test – You’ll answer questions about U.S. history and government.
- Final questions – The officer may ask about any arrests, taxes, or affiliations.
At the end, you’ll either get an approval, a continuation to provide more evidence, or a denial.
The English Test
The test is to confirm you can communicate in simple English. There are three sections.
- Reading – You’ll read one out of three sentences correctly.
- Writing – You’ll write one out of three sentences correctly.
- Speaking – The officer will judge your speaking ability during the interview itself.
As long as you’ve been studying, you’ll be fine.
The Civics Test
If you file Form N-400 before Oct. 20, 2025, you’ll take the 2008 naturalization civics test.
This is an oral test. A USCIS officer will ask you up to 10 questions from the list of 100. You need to get 6 right to pass. Miss 5 out of 10, and you fail.
If you file Form N-400 on or after Oct. 20, 2025, you’ll take the 2025 version.
This is also oral. You’ll face 20 questions from a list of 128. You need 12 correct answers to pass. Miss 9 out of 20, and you fail.
You may get questions like:
- What is the supreme law of the land?
- Who wrote the Declaration of Independence?
- How many U.S. Senators are there?
Study Tip: Don’t try to memorize all possible questions in one sitting. Break them into smaller sets and review daily.
65/20 Special Consideration
If you’re 65 or older and have lived in the U.S. as a green card holder for 20+ years, you qualify for special consideration.
USCIS will give you 10 questions, chosen from a smaller set of 20. These questions come from either the 2008 or 2025 civics test. You only need to study those 20 marked with an asterisk (*). And you can take the test in the language you’re most comfortable with.
Note: Some civics test answers change after elections or new appointments. You’ll need to give the name of the official who’s in office at the time of your interview.
New Trends
Additional updates in 2025 include:
- Stricter background checks – Officers are digging deeper into social media activity and overseas travel.
- A closer review of taxes – Expect questions if you’ve missed filings or outstanding debts.
- More in-person scrutiny – Remote or waived interviews are rare now. Almost everyone must appear in person.
How to Prepare for the Interview
Here are ways to set yourself up for success:
- Review your Form N-400 before the interview. You should know your answers inside out.
- Bring every required document. Originals, not copies.
- Study the civics and English material daily.
- Be honest. Don’t try to guess your way through a question.
- Practice answering questions out loud.
Remember, the officer isn’t trying to trick you. Their job is to make sure you meet the legal requirements.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Forgetting documents.
- Giving answers that don’t match what’s on your application.
- Getting defensive or arguing with the officer.
- Speaking too little or too much. Keep it simple.
After the Interview
If approved, you’ll get scheduled for the Oath of Allegiance ceremony. That’s the final step to becoming a U.S. citizen. If USCIS continues your case, don’t panic. It means they need more evidence.
And if denied, you can appeal or reapply when you’re eligible.
Where to Learn More
The Citizenship Interview may feel intimidating, but it gets easier with preparation. You’ve already made it this far; the interview is only the final step before becoming a U.S. citizen.
At ImmigrationQuestion.com, we break down immigration news, policies, and updates in plain language. Are you preparing for the 2025 naturalization interview or tracking other USCIS changes? We’ve got resources to guide you. We also connect you with licensed immigration attorneys who can help you succeed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens at the USCIS citizenship interview in 2025?
You’ll meet with a USCIS officer who’ll check your N-400 application, ask you questions about your background, and test your English and civics knowledge.
How long does the 2025 naturalization interview take?
Most interviews take 20 to 45 minutes, but it depends on your case.
What’s the difference between the 2008 and 2025 civics tests?
The 2008 test has up to 10 questions. You need to answer 6 questions correctly to pass. The 2025 test has 20 questions. You need 12 correct answers to pass.
Which civics test will I take in 2025?
If you filed Form N-400 before Oct. 20, 2025, you’ll take the 2008 test. If you filed on or after Oct. 20, 2025, you’ll take the new 2025 test.
Do older applicants get special consideration?
Yes. If you’re 65 or older and have lived in the U.S. as a green card holder for 20 years, you’ll only study 20 marked questions. You can also take the test in your own language.
What if I fail the citizenship test in 2025?
You’ll get a second chance. USCIS will schedule another interview within 60 to 90 days.
Can I take the naturalization test in another language?
Yes, if you qualify under certain exceptions. Otherwise, the test is in English.
Do I need to know the names of current officials?
Yes. Answers about officials change with elections and appointments. You must know the name of the person in office at the time of your interview.
How should I prepare for the citizenship interview?
Review your N-400, practice English speaking and listening, and study the civics questions for the correct version of the test.
Where can I get reliable help with the process?
Check ImmigrationQuestion.com for clear answers, updates, and resources to help you prepare.
