Naturalization is the process by which U.S. citizenship is granted to a foreign citizen or national after he or she fulfills the requirements established by Congress in the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA).
You do not need to be a naturalized citizen to live and work in the United States.
In order to become a citizen of the United States, you will need to pass an interview (the BCIS or Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services). Many people may feel intimidated by this, but if you have filed the formidable requisite expanse of documentation in advance then the actual interview may be simple in comparison.
Even academics are not experts in all aspects of U.S. history and/or English. If you come prepared to answer basic history and civics questions and have a simple facility with the English language you should be amply prepared.
The USCIS authorities will likely ask you questions about all of the following information:
Have your Alien Registration Card, passport, and entry or reentry permits with you for the interview plus any other documents indicated in your interview letter.
At no time should you LIE to the Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services. This is very important – no matter how worried you may be about something in your past. IF the BCIS grants you citizenship and then finds out you were untrue at any point – they can choose to revoke your citizenship and deport you.
Be on time and be PREPARED. Forgetting the required paperwork will delay your interview.
Except under certain extenuating circumstances you must be able to read, write, and speak minimally (proficient, passable) English to be eligible for naturalization. Prepare in advance. There are many community resources to support language acquisition. The BCIS is sincere in its efforts to ensure new citizens understand basic American civics and history, but that does not mean it is easy.
Again, seek out community resources to support you in this endeavor (even your public library). You will be required to take and pass a simple test.
Practice tests are available and should be utilized to help you better understand what type of information may be expected of you. For more information, speak with an immigration attorney in Houston on how to approach these tests by contacting our office today.