Applying For Citizenship: Frequently Asked Questions

Blog

If you are hoping to become a United States citizen, you might feel like you don't know where to start. Most people have questions about the process. Here are some of the common questions people ask about becoming a citizen.

How long does it take?

The time to process a request for naturalization can vary based on how many applications the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services have at one time. However, you can expect to wait several months from the beginning of the process to the end, so make sure you file as soon as you are eligible so that you can enjoy the benefits of citizenship sooner. 

How do you prepare for the test?

Most people know about the test that is required for American citizenship, and they worry about whether or not they will pass. The test has a hundred questions that focus on history, civics, geography, and government. Because the application process takes so long, you have months to study the answers to these questions. At your interview, you have to answer only 10 questions and get a majority of them right in order to pass. You won't know which questions of the list of 100 your interviewer will ask you, though, so you need to study and know the answer to each one. 

What happens at the interview?

When you go to the interview, the officer you speak with will have access to your entire immigration file, including other petitions you have submitted in the past. You and the officer will review your citizenship application, including questions about travel and criminal history. The interviewer assesses your ability to speak and understand English and will, of course, ask the questions from the test, which you will answer. 

Do you need an immigration attorney?

You do not need an immigration lawyer in order to apply for citizenship, but it is strongly recommended to have legal aid because the application can be confusing. A lawyer knows how to help you get the documentation you need and can help you make sure you've completed the application correctly. 

Do you need to learn English?

Part of your interview will include a very basic English test. You do not need to be fluent in English to qualify for citizenship, however. Study English during your application process, and maybe consider taking a community English class to help you prepare. 

Can you keep citizenship in my home country?

The United States does not recognize dual citizenship. When you take your oath of citizenship, you promise to renounce ties with your former country and accept America as your new home. You might still retain citizenship in another country if that country allows duality, but in the United States, you will be considered only American with no other competing nationality. 

Contact an immigration law firm to receive more answers to your questions.

Share

9 July 2020

Immigration Without Your Spouse

Many people immigrate to another country in order to work or attend school, and they must leave their spouses behind. My name is Roberta, and I believe that many people do not understand their rights involving having spouses in the country with them and bringing spouses into the country permanently. In this blog, I will discuss the laws and regulations involved in immigrating without your spouse and then having that spouse join you at a later time. I will suggest ways to find an immigration attorney to help you with your case, and I will provide other resources where you can get information and advice.