USCIS Naturalization Ceremony Tips

1. What documents should I bring to the naturalization ceremony?


At your naturalization ceremony, you should bring a copy of your Permanent Resident Card, your Application for Naturalization (Form N-400), a copy of your appointment letter, and any other documents that USCIS has requested that you provide. You should also bring two forms of identification such as a driver’s license or passport.

2. How early should I arrive before the naturalization ceremony?


You should arrive at least 30 minutes before the ceremony.

3. What should I wear to the naturalization ceremony?


You should wear something comfortable and appropriate for a formal event. Generally, people wear a suit, dress, or other nice clothing.

4. What is the Oath of Allegiance I will be asked to take at the naturalization ceremony?


The Oath of Allegiance is as follows:

“I hereby declare, on oath, that I absolutely and entirely renounce and abjure all allegiance and fidelity to any foreign prince, potentate, state, or sovereignty, of whom or which I have heretofore been a subject or citizen; that I will support and defend the Constitution and laws of the United States of America against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; that I will bear arms on behalf of the United States when required by the law; that I will perform noncombatant service in the Armed Forces of the United States when required by the law; that I will perform work of national importance under civilian direction when required by the law; and that I take this obligation freely, without any mental reservation or purpose of evasion; so help me God.”

5. How long will the naturalization ceremony last?


The length of the naturalization ceremony can vary, but it generally lasts between 30 minutes and one hour.

6. What type of photograph should I bring for my certificate of naturalization?


You should bring a passport-style photograph for your certificate of naturalization. The photograph must meet certain criteria, such as being a color photograph, taken in the last 6 months, and sized 2 x 2 inches. For more information, visit the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services website.

7. How will I receive my certificate of naturalization after the naturalization ceremony?


You should receive your Certificate of Naturalization (Form N-550) at the naturalization ceremony. If you do not receive it at the ceremony, contact your local United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) office or call their national customer service center at 1-800-375-5283.

8. Will there be an interpreter available at the naturalization ceremony?


In most cases, no. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) requires that applicants for naturalization understand English in order to complete the Oath of Allegiance. Most naturalization ceremonies do not provide interpreters. However, USCIS does have some limited accommodations available for individuals with disabilities or other language challenges in some cases.

9. What is the difference between a naturalization ceremony and a swearing-in ceremony?


A naturalization ceremony is the official process of granting U.S. citizenship to a foreign national after they have met all of the requirements and have been approved by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This ceremony is also known as a citizenship ceremony or oath ceremony. During this event, the new citizen takes an oath of allegiance to the United States and receives their Certificate of Naturalization.

A swearing-in ceremony is a separate event that occurs after the naturalization ceremony. During this ceremony, a new citizen takes their Oath of Allegiance in front of a judge or other authorized government official in order to officially complete the process of becoming an American citizen. This oath is a formal declaration that the new citizen promises to abide by all laws and regulations of the United States. This ceremony is different from the naturalization ceremony because it involves taking an oath of allegiance and formally completing the process of becoming an American citizen.

10. What is the difference between a U.S. citizen and a lawful permanent resident?


A U.S. citizen is a person who is born in the United States or has obtained United States citizenship by naturalization. U.S. citizens have the right to vote, sponsor relatives for immigration, and hold public office in the U.S. A lawful permanent resident, also known as a green card holder, is a foreign national who has been granted the right to live and work in the U.S. on a permanent basis. Unlike citizens, permanent residents are not allowed to vote in federal elections or hold public office. They can sponsor family members for immigration, but only under certain conditions.

11. Will I be able to take photographs during or after my naturalization ceremony?


Yes, you can take photographs during or after your naturalization ceremony. However, please remember to turn off any electronic devices prior to the start of the ceremony.

12. Can I bring my family or friends to my naturalization ceremony?


Yes, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) encourages you to bring family and friends to your naturalization ceremony. Due to COVID-19 safety protocols, the number of guests allowed may be limited.

13. Are there any books, pamphlets, or other materials that I can read before or after my naturalization ceremony?


Yes. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) provides a range of materials that can be read before and after your naturalization ceremony. These materials include an interactive handbook, study guides, and audio recordings in several languages. You can find these materials on USCIS’s website under the “Learn About US Citizenship” tab. Additionally, you can contact your local USCIS office to request printed copies of the materials.

14. What is the difference between a Certificate of Citizenship and a Certificate of Naturalization?


A Certificate of Citizenship is issued by the United States government to establish the facts that an individual was born in the U.S. or is the child of a U.S. citizen parent. A Certificate of Naturalization is issued by the United States government to establish the facts that an individual has obtained U.S. citizenship through naturalization.

15. Do I need to bring any paperwork regarding my green card when I go to my naturalization ceremony?


Yes, you will need to bring your Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) with you to the naturalization ceremony. If your card has expired, you will need to renew it before the ceremony. You can find more information about this process on the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services website.

16. How will I receive my Certificate of Naturalization after the naturalization ceremony?


After the naturalization ceremony, you will receive your Certificate of Naturalization from the USCIS by mail. You should receive it within a few weeks of attending the ceremony.

17. Can I avoid attending a naturalization ceremony altogether?


No, you must attend the naturalization ceremony in order to become a U.S. citizen.

18. What is the difference between a passport and a Certificate of Naturalization?


A passport is an official document issued by a country’s government that confirms a person’s identity and citizenship. It is used to travel outside of the country. A Certificate of Naturalization is an official document issued by a country’s government that certifies a person has been granted citizenship after meeting the necessary requirements. It is the final step in the process of becoming a naturalized citizen.

19. Are there any fees associated with a naturalization ceremony?


Yes, there are fees associated with naturalization ceremonies. In the United States, the fee for naturalization ceremonies is currently $725 USD. Applicants must also pay any applicable biometrics fees.

20. When will I receive my Certificate of Naturalization after my oath-taking ceremony or interview?


You will receive your Certificate of Naturalization within 45 days of your oath-taking ceremony or interview.