The Naturalization Interview

Legal Guidance from Houston Immigration Lawyers

One of the most important steps to the citizenship and naturalization process is meeting with immigration officials for an interview. We often receive questions about how to prepare for the interview and what one might expect. Sebastian Simon Law Group, PLLC can offer legal counsel on this matter so that you are well-prepared for your interview.

What to Expect from the USCIS

Always make sure that you have original copies of your immigration materials. If your documents are in another language, you will need to have those translated into English. When you first arrive at the USCIS office, there will be security checkpoints upon first entering the building. You will then check in and wait until it is the time for your interview.

During the interview, you will be asked the following:

• About your life and background
• Evidence to support your petition
• Where you are currently living and for how long
• Questions about your character
• Your stance on the U.S. Constitution
• Whether or not you are willing to take the Oath of Allegiance to the U.S.

You will need to have these documents ready and with you:

• Alien registration card
• Photo identification (can be state-issued driver’s license or identification card)
• Any passports or travel documentation provided to you from the USCIS
• Any copies of tax statements or other payments that provide proof that you are not a U.S. citizen or resident
• If you have been arrested, bring your arrest records, or issues of probation, and other documentation. You should also bring any records that show you have sealed or expunged prior criminal history.

The immigration official will be asking many personal questions about your past, particularly if you have a criminal history. Remember that this is protocol; they are only trying to make sure that you are the best possible candidate for U.S. citizenship. Be as honest and truthful as possible, as the USCIS can choose to deny your petition for lying during the interview. Furthermore, make sure that you have the required documents, as going without can prevent the delay of your application.

What if I Am Married to a U.S. Citizen?

Marriage to a U.S. citizen is another path that may lead to U.S. citizenship. It is not automatic, however. If you have married a U.S. citizen, remember to take the steps to make the transition official.

You will need the following:

• The marriage certificate
• Proof that your spouse has been a U.S. citizen for over 3 years (some examples of proof: passport, birth certificate, naturalization certificate)
• Proof that your previous marriages have been dissolved or are terminated
• Evidence that you and your spouse are lawfully married (examples include: joint tax statements, joint bank accounts, joint investments)
• Your children’s birth certificates, if you share any children

As always, our Houston immigration lawyers can offer some insight as to how best to plan ahead for your naturalization interview. Both Attorney Saqer and Attorney Simon have experienced the immigration experience first-hand and can draw from that experience to help you.

Have Questions? Contact Us!

Our Houston immigration firm, Sebastian Simon Law Group, PLLC, has been helping clients find successful outcomes to their immigration matters. No matter what the circumstances may be, trust that we can help you find the right path to help you reach your goals. We offer services in English and Spanish to better serve our clients.