Revised Naturalization Civics Test – What to Know

When someone wishes to enter the United States and become a citizen, he or she must go through the naturalization process. Part of this process includes taking an exam. This exam is used to determine the applicant’s basic English skills and knowledge of U.S. government and history. Recently, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has announced that they will be revising the civics exam given to those planning to enter the country. Read on to learn more about the civics process and what the revisions will entail.

A Brief Overview of the Naturalization Process

There are three main ways for one to obtain citizenship: family-based, employment-based, and refugee/asylum status. There are some requirements you must meet in order to be considered eligible. Some of these requirements include being 18 years or older and having a permanent resident for at least five years, proving to have been physically present in the U.S. for at least 30 months out of the five years, and having lived for at least three months in the state or district in which you apply. There may be different requirements depending upon your status and situation.

What Is the Difference Between the New Exam and the Old One?

The exam still has the same basic purpose and the same number of questions. The new version of the test will simply include more questions designed to test the applicant’s understanding of U.S. history and civics. This will allow applicants to learn more about the United States while they prepare for the exam.

When Will the New Exam Be Put in Place?

The date at which you apply determines which exam you will take. Those who apply before December 1, 2020, will take the current version of the exam. If you apply on or after December 1, 2020, you will take the new version of the exam. If you have questions about the application process, reach out to our firm.

How Can I Prepare for the Exam?

There are lots of resources when it comes to preparing for the civics exam. For more information, you should reach out to an immigration attorney who can provide you with the best tools to prepare for the test and for the rest of the naturalization process.

If you have any questions about the test, the changes being made, or the naturalization process, do not hesitate to reach out to a skilled and knowledgeable immigration attorney.

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.