The naturalization interview is the final major step before becoming a U.S. citizen. It is conducted by a USCIS officer at a local USCIS field office. Most interviews last between 20 and 30 minutes.
The interview has three parts: an English language test, a civics test, and a review of your N-400 application. This guide explains what happens in each part and how to prepare.
What Happens at the Interview
When your interview begins, the USCIS officer will ask you to raise your right hand and swear or affirm that you will tell the truth.
Part 1 — English Language Test
The officer will assess your ability to speak, read, and write in English during the normal course of the interview. You will be asked to read one sentence out loud in English and write one sentence in English that the officer dictates. You must answer the officer’s questions in English.
Part 2 — Civics Test
The officer will ask you civics questions verbally from the 100 USCIS civics topics. You must answer at least 6 out of up to 10 questions correctly to pass. As soon as you answer 6 correctly, the civics portion ends.
Part 3 — N-400 Application Review
The officer will go through your N-400 Application for Naturalization and ask questions to verify the information you provided. They will ask about your personal history, residence, employment, travel outside the U.S., and your moral character.
Be prepared to explain any travel outside the United States, any criminal history, any gaps in employment, and any changes to your personal information since filing.
Documents to Bring to Your Interview
Bring all of the following:
USCIS interview appointment notice
Your Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
A government-issued photo ID
Your N-400 application — a printed copy with your answers
Travel documents: passport and any Advance Parole documents used during travel
Tax returns or tax transcripts for the past 3–5 years
Any documents related to criminal history if applicable
Marriage certificate or divorce decree if your name has changed
Evidence of continued residence if you have traveled outside the U.S.
Bring originals and copies. The officer may keep copies.
What the Officer Is Looking For
Continuous residence
You must have continuously resided in the U.S. for the required period (generally 5 years, or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen). Extended trips outside the U.S. can disrupt continuous residence.
Physical presence
You must have been physically present in the U.S. for at least half of the required residence period.
Good moral character
USCIS evaluates moral character based on your conduct during the statutory period. Certain criminal convictions, tax issues, failure to register for the Selective Service, or making false statements on your application can affect your eligibility.
Attachment to the Constitution
You must demonstrate that you are willing to support and defend the U.S. Constitution. Most of the civics questions test this directly.
What Happens After the Interview
Approved — You passed the English test, passed the civics test, and your application is approved. You will receive a notice for your naturalization ceremony.
Continued — The officer needs more information or documentation. You will be given instructions on what to provide.
Denied — Your application was denied. The officer will explain the reason. You have the right to request a hearing if you disagree.
If you do not pass the civics or English test on the first attempt, you will be given a second opportunity within 60–90 days.
How to Prepare for the Civics Portion
The civics test is the part of the interview most applicants spend time preparing for. All 100 civics topics are published publicly — you know exactly what could be asked.
The most effective preparation approach:
Study by topic category: American Government, American History, Integrated Civics
Practice answering questions out loud — not just reading answers on paper
Aim to score 9–10 out of 10 consistently in practice before your interview
Our U.S. Citizenship Practice Tests include four 25-question sets covering all 100 civics topics. One-time $4.99 with unlimited retakes.
For a detailed study plan, see: How to Study for the U.S. Citizenship Civics Test.
For a full overview of who is eligible to apply, see: U.S. Citizenship Requirements: Who Qualifies for Naturalization
Practice Exam Hub is not affiliated with USCIS, the Department of Homeland Security, or any government agency. This content is for general informational and educational purposes only. Immigration procedures may change — always verify current requirements at uscis.gov.
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