4 Ways to Prepare for a Successful U.S. Citizenship Interview

Applying for U.S. citizenship, or naturalisation, is a big step, but one that many Permanent Residents hope to someday take once they qualify. If you are getting ready for your interview, what can you do to prepare for the occasion?

Dates and Length of Absences from the United States

During your interview, the immigration officer will be assessing your eligibility based on the information that you provided in Form N-400. Another way they will determine whether you are eligible for naturalisation is by asking questions, such as any periods of absence you have taken from the United States.

Permanent Residents who are applying for naturalisation are required to prove that they have maintained continuous residence in the United States for the required length of time. If they have been absent for long stretches of time, they will not be eligible for naturalisation. Look back through your passport(s), travel itinerary and other sources, to find out exactly how long you have been outside the country since becoming a Permanent Resident, as you will need to provide this information during your naturalisation interview.

Watch the USCIS Naturalisation Interview and Test Video

Attending the naturalisation interview and sitting the required tests can be unnerving when you are unsure of what to expect upon arrival. The USCIS naturalisation interview and test video can help to allay many of your concerns.

The video shows you what happens each step of the way, from informing you of which form you need to submit, to showing examples of simulated naturalisation interview situations that involve the English, history, and civics tests, as well as other questions that you may come across during your naturalisation interview.

Bring Along Supporting Documentation

Upon receipt of Form N-400, USCIS will issue Permanent Residents with an appointment notice that will need to be brought along to the naturalisation interview and shown to a security officer upon arrival before they clear security.

You will also be asked to bring along other forms of supporting documentation, such as current and expired passports, your Permanent Resident Card, a state-issued identification card, evidence of your marital status and other forms of identification that are requested.

Familiarise Yourself with Your Application

It is a good idea to keep a copy of your application and to familiarise yourself with it before you arrive for your naturalisation interview so that you are fully prepared to answer the questions that will be posed on the day. Keep in mind that you may be asked to recall dates that you were absent from the United States, information concerning the termination of previous marriages and so on.

Permanent Residents who are considering naturalisation have many resources to help them prepare for a successful naturalisation interview. One resource is the USCIS naturalisation interview and test video, which provides a wealth of useful information that can be put into practice as you prepare for your interview.

Source:

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, The USCIS Naturalisation Interview and Test Video.