May 14, 2019

The Citizenship Interview

When you apply forU.S. citizenship (apply for naturalization), you must meet certain eligibilitycriteria, and you must pass an examination and attend an interview with anofficer from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This interviewserves several purposes, as it allows the officer to go over all theinformation on your citizenship application, test your U.S. knowledge andEnglish skills, and generally make a decision regarding your eligibility forcitizenship. Expect the officer to review the substance of your applicationduring the interview.

What Should You Expect?

When you get to thelocation of your interview, you will likely have to wait in the loby with otherpeople until an officer calls your name. You will likely be led to theiroffice, where they will administer an oath that you will tell the truth duringthe interview. The officer will then begin looking at your application andbegin asking you questions about the answers and information you provided. Notonly are they confirming your answers but they are also taking this opportunityto observe your ability to understand and speak in English. As part of theinterview process, you will also take a written test regarding your Englishskills and knowledge of the U.S., including questions about history and civics.

How Did you Get Your Green Card?

We are seeing anincreasing trend of officers inquiring about the Applicant’s green card duringthe citizenship interview. Often Applicant’s do not expect this line ofquestioning, some received their green cards decades ago and do not remembermany details, others are very surprised and mix up important details.

 Be prepare to answer questions about how youreceived your green card.  Questionslike: “How did you get your green card?”, “Who petitioned you?”, Did you workwith the Employer that petitioned for you?”, “Are you still married to thespouse that petitioned you?”. If you are concerned about this line ofquestioning or the process leading to your green card was  especially challenging, we recommend havingan attorney attend the interview with you.

There should be nosurprises during your citizenship interview, as you should have the help of animmigration lawyer in Orange County who will ensure you are fully prepared. Anattorney can tell you what exactly to expect, as well as ask practice questionssince the actual interview can be nerve-wracking for many people.

Contactan Immigration Lawyer in Orange County for Help

While interviews may seem intimidating, theyare a standard – and required – part of obtaining U.S. citizenship. If youwould like to discuss applying for citizenship, call an Orange Countyimmigration attorney at Brudner Law at 714.794.9366 or contact usonline.

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