How to Prepare for Your Naturalization Interview: Top USCIS Tips & Advice

By: Jarbath Pena Law Group

For many immigrants, the naturalization interview represents the culmination of years—sometimes decades—of hard work, sacrifice, and perseverance. It’s not just another appointment with an immigration officer. It’s the final step in the long and often complex journey toward becoming a United States citizen. After navigating endless paperwork, enduring long wait times, and staying in compliance with every rule and requirement, this interview marks the last major hurdle to U.S. citizenship.

It’s entirely normal to feel anxious as the interview date approaches. The pressure to do well is real. Your future, stability, and the chance to fully belong in the country you’ve made your home are on the line. But despite the nerves, the process is navigable, and you are not alone. With the right preparation and guidance, the naturalization interview can become less intimidating and more of an opportunity to celebrate how far you have come. The Jarbath-Peña Law Group is committed to standing by you every step of the way, helping ease your anxiety and offering a clear path forward.

What Is the Naturalization Interview?

The naturalization interview is a required step in the U.S. citizenship process. Conducted by an officer with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), this interview allows the government to verify your eligibility for citizenship and evaluate your understanding of U.S. history, government, and the English language.

The interview typically occurs several months after USCIS receives your Application for Naturalization. Before the interview, you’ll receive an appointment notice which outlines the date, time, and location of the interview.

During the interview, the USCIS officer will:

• Review your N-400 application for accuracy and completeness;

• Confirm that you meet all eligibility criteria;

• Administer the English and civics tests, unless you qualify for an exemption; and

• Ask questions to confirm the fulfillment of continuous residency, physical presence, moral character, and other key eligibility requirements.

  
  

The interview is essential to determine whether you meet the legal and procedural standards to become a U.S. citizen.

What Do I Need to Do Before the Naturalization Interview?

Preparation is key to a smooth and successful naturalization interview. Before the scheduled appointment, you should:

• Review a complete copy of your N-400 application and supporting documents;

• Update USCIS with any changes in circumstances, such as a new address, job, or family situation;

• Study for the English and civics tests using USCIS study materials;

• Arrange transportation to the interview location and plan to arrive early;

• Organize the documents requested in the interview notice; and

• Notify USCIS in advance if a disability or medical condition requires special accommodations.

Avoid making any false or misleading statements, since even honest mistakes can raise concerns if not corrected beforehand. We can help ensure that you do everything you need to before the big day.

What the USCIS Officer Will Be Looking For during the Naturalization Interview?

At the interview, a USCIS officer will greet you, swear you in under oath, and begin the formal review of your application and background. The officer will look for consistency between the information on the application and your oral responses. They will ask you questions about the following:

• Your identity, background, and family;

• Your immigration and travel history;

• Your marital status and children;

• Your criminal history, if any; and

• Your allegiance to the United States and willingness to take the Oath of Allegiance.

  
  

In addition, you must demonstrate the ability to understand, speak, and write basic English and show knowledge of U.S. history and government.

Exemptions and Accommodations to the Naturalization Interview

Not every applicant must take the English and civics tests. Some exemptions are available, as follows:

• The 50/20 and 55/15 Rules. Applicants aged 50 or older with at least 20 years of permanent residency or those aged 55 or older with at least 15 years of residency may take the civics test in their native language and are exempt from the English test.

• Disabilities. Applicants with physical or developmental disabilities or mental impairments can request a medical waiver from a licensed medical professional.

USCIS may also provide accommodations such as sign language interpreters, extended testing time, or off-site interviews for applicants with disabilities.

Passing Your Naturalization Test

The USCIS reports that, in 2022, 88% of applicants passed the test on their first try, and 95.7% passed after retaking it. With those passage rates in mind, the best way to prepare for your naturalization test is to practice. 

As stated, the naturalization test has two parts: an English test and a civics test.

• English Test. This test includes reading one sentence in English, writing one sentence in English, and answering questions orally about your citizenship application.

• Civics Test. Applicants must answer 10 questions from a list of 100 possible questions. A minimum of six correct answers is required to pass.

  
  

Study materials, flashcards, and practice quizzes are available on the USCIS website. Consistent daily practice and studying with a friend or family member can help boost your confidence and help you retain the information.

Answering the Interviewer’s Questions

In addition to studying for the tests, you should also do the following to prepare.

• Review your immigration history and any supporting documents submitted with the N-400 application;

• Understand the information on your green card, tax records, marriage certificates, and other documents;

• Be prepared to explain any inconsistencies or issues—such as past arrests, long trips outside the U.S., or errors on your application; and

• Practice answering questions in English clearly and calmly.

Our team can help you by conducting a mock interview with you. This is another area where an experienced legal professional can be a valuable tool to help ease your anxiety by simulating the real interview experience.

What to Bring to the Interview

You should bring all required documents listed in the interview notice, including:

• The interview appointment notice (Form I-797C);

• Permanent Resident Card (green card);

• State-issued ID (driver’s license or identification card);

• All passports and travel documents used in the past five years;

• Certified copies of court dispositions (if applicable);

• Marriage certificate, divorce decree, or death certificate (if applicable);

• Supporting documents for any changes made to the N-400 after filing;

• Evidence of child support payments or financial obligations (if applicable); and

• Form N-648 if you are applying for a medical exemption.

Having an organized folder with labeled sections can help you stay calm and handle questions efficiently during the interview.

Possible Outcomes

There are three potential outcomes following the interview:

• Approval. If the officer is satisfied with your eligibility and test performance, they will approve your application. USCIS will schedule a date for you to participate in the oath ceremony.

• Continuation. If the officer needs more documentation or if you fail one of the tests, USCIS may continue the application and schedule a second interview. The officer might issue a request for evidence (RFE) if they need more documentation.

• Denial. If you are found ineligible, the officer could deny your application. 

If the officer denies your application, don’t panic. You could still have options, and we can help you appeal the decision or reapply if you are eligible.

Compassionate Legal Support for a Life-Changing Moment

The naturalization interview is a pivotal moment—one that can open the door to full participation in American life. It’s normal to feel overwhelmed, but you do not have to go through it alone. The Jarbath-Peña Law Group’s legal team understands this moment’s weight. Fortunately, we also know how to provide the guidance, preparation, and advocacy needed to approach the interview with clarity and confidence.

With years of experience helping clients through the naturalization process, our attorneys offer compassionate and thorough support at every step. From helping gather documents to conducting mock interviews and ensuring every detail is accounted for, we are here to reduce stress and increase your chances of success.

Contact us today to schedule a free consultation. Let us help turn the final step of the naturalization journey into a confident stride forward.