What Do I Need to Know About United States Naturalization Ceremonies?

Filing a Form N-400, otherwise known as the Application for Naturalization, is one of the final steps a person has to take before officially becoming a United States citizen. This is a momentous accomplishment. The final step that comes after this is the naturalization ceremony. Continue reading below to learn more about this process and contact our experienced New York immigration attorney if you have any additional questions.

Are There Different Types of Naturalization Ceremonies?

There are two types of naturalization ceremonies. This includes the administrative ceremony and the judicial ceremony. You will be required to take the Oath of Allegiance at both ceremonies. At the administrative ceremony, USCIS will administer the Oath, while a court will do so at the judicial ceremony.

While it is possible for there to be ceremonies available immediately after your interview, you will most likely not have your naturalization ceremony on the same day. In these cases, you will receive a letter from USCIS including the time, date, and location of the ceremony. If you are unable to attend the ceremony on the designated date, you can return the notice to USCIS with a written explanation of why as well as a request for a new date. It is important to know that if you change the date more than once, your application may be denied.

What Happens at the Naturalization Ceremony?

It is important to educate yourself on all coronavirus protocol guidelines before attending your naturalization ceremony. These guidelines can be found on USCIS’s website. At the ceremony, you can first check in with USCIS and give them your completed questionnaire as well as your Form N-455 and Notice of Naturalization Oath Ceremony. You will also be required to return your Permanent Resident Card. After taking the Oath you can receive the Certificate of Naturalization. Once granted citizenship in the United States, you are entitled to a variety of benefits. This includes applying for passports, voting in elections, updating your Social Security records, and feeling secure with your status in the country. If you have any additional questions, do not hesitate to give our firm a call today.

Contact Our Firm

Katona & Associates, PLLC is an experienced, highly dedicated New York City immigration law firm located in lower Manhattan. Our firm works with clients in all matters of immigration law, including employment immigration, family immigration, deportation defense, green cards, and citizenship. Contact us to discuss your case and get the help you need.