Preparing for your U.S. citizenship interview can feel overwhelming but being familiar with the process and the types of questions asked can help you feel more confident. This guide outlines the most common questions USCIS officers may ask during your naturalization interview, based on your Form N-400, background, and other relevant topics.
Note: Every applicant’s interview is different. USCIS officers may ask different or additional questions depending on your case. Always answer truthfully.
Check Also: U.S Citizenship Interview – How to Prepare
Naturalization Interview Details:
The naturalization interview typically includes:
- A review of your Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization)
- An English speaking, reading, and writing test
- A U.S. civics test (unless exempt)
More about the process: USCIS Interview and Test Guide
Questions Based on Form N-400:
Your answers to Form N-400 will be reviewed in person. Be ready to confirm or elaborate on:
Personal Details
- What is your full legal name?
- Have you used any other names?
- What is your current address?
- When did you become a permanent resident?
Travel History
- Have you taken any trips outside the U.S. in the last 5 years?
- What countries did you visit and for how long?
Marital and Family History
- Are you married? If yes, provide your spouse’s details.
- Do you have any children?
Employment and Residence
- Where have you worked over the last 5 years?
- List all addresses where you’ve lived.
Selective Service Registration (if applicable)
- Did you register for Selective Service?
Civics, Reading, and Writing Test:
Civics Test: You will be asked up to 10 questions from a list of 100. You must answer at least 6 correctly to pass.
- Example: What is the supreme law of the land? The Constitution
English Reading and Writing:
- You will be asked to read one sentence aloud and write one sentence correctly.
Personal History Questions:
Behavioral & Character Questions:
- Have you ever claimed to be a U.S. citizen?
- Do you owe any overdue taxes?
- Have you ever failed to support your dependents?
- Do you belong to any groups or organizations?
Military Service (if applicable):
- Have you served in the U.S. military?
- Were you ever court-martialed?
Red Flags and Legal Issues for U.S Citizenship Interview Questions 2025:
These questions help USCIS determine if you meet the moral character requirements:
- Have you ever committed a crime?
- Have you ever been arrested, cited, or detained?
- Have you ever lied to gain immigration benefits?
Tip: If you answer “yes” to any of these, consider speaking to an immigration attorney before your interview.
Information for Interview Success:
- Review your Form N-400 thoroughly.
- Bring all required documents (e.g., Green Card, passport, tax returns).
- Dress professionally and arrive early.
- Stay calm and answer honestly.
- If you don’t understand a question, ask for clarification.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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Is the interview hard to pass?
Not necessarily. With proper preparation, most applicants pass on the first try. The pass rate for the civics test is around 91%.
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How many civics questions are there?
There are 100 possible questions. The officer will ask 10, and you must answer at least 6 correctly to pass. These questions cover U.S. history, government, and rights.
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What is the U.S. citizenship interview?
It is an in-person interview conducted by a USCIS officer after filing Form N-400. The officer verifies your application, asks questions about your background, and tests your English and civics knowledge.
