Becoming a legal citizen of the United States is a complicated process. Immigrants must live in the country legally for years to be eligible for citizenship. They must submit paperwork to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). They must pay hundreds of dollars to have their application processed. They also need to attend an interview. At that interview, USCIS employees conduct two tests to determine if they meet current standards for citizenship.
What are the tests that those who want to become naturalized citizens must pass?
English proficiency
Most immigrants must demonstrate the ability to speak and understand English. There are exemptions available for older adults who have legally resided in the United States for multiple years. Most immigrants must pass a test that looks at their ability to read, write, speak and understand English.
United States history and government
The USCIS also conducts a test in civics during the naturalization interview. The Civics test specifically looks at knowledge related to United States history and government. The USCIS does provide a list of 128 possible questions. The test is verbal, and the immigrant must answer at least 12 out of 20 questions correctly to pass.
Immigrants who fail have the option of retaking the test one time. Immigrants can also reapply as many times as is necessary for them to successfully complete the naturalization process.
Having support while preparing for naturalization can increase the chances of passing the test and meeting all of the statutory requirements. Immigrants who want to remain in the country forever and extend immigration opportunities to their family members may require assistance as they prepare for naturalization, and that’s okay.