Common U.S. Citizenship Interview Questions in 2025

For immigrants who have put blood, sweat, and tears into building up their lives in the United States, naturalization is the last and typically most rewarding step in the process. Before someone can eventually become a U.S. citizen, however, they need to meet a series of requirements and pass the U.S. citizenship test. By understanding common U.S. citizenship interview questions in 2025, folks can work to set themselves up for success when the big day comes.

The in-person interview is carried out by a U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) officer and involves an in-depth review of your naturalization or N-400 application, as well as an assessment of your English language skills in a civics exam. A great way to prepare is to understand the types of questions you may be facing and how to prepare for them — all within the framework of immigration law.

Why the Citizenship Interview Matters

In the fiscal year of 2024, USCIS oversaw the naturalization of 818,500 new citizens, according to data from the agency. Although this figure shows a 7% drop from the year prior, the overall three-year total still reaches over 2.6 million new United States citizens. When it comes to new naturalizations, California continues to lead, accounting for 18.4% of all naturalizations that happened last year.

Many of these new citizens came from countries like Mexico (13.1%), India (6.1%), the Philippines (5.0%), the Dominican Republic (4.9%), and Vietnam (4.1%). With the applicant pool being diverse and there being high naturalization rates in California, it’s critical to be well-prepared for the interview.

Key Parts of the Citizenship Interview

The citizenship interview is typically held at a local USCIS Field Office, such as in San Diego, San Francisco, or Los Angeles. Individuals being interviewed will be working one-on-one with a USCIS officer who will review their documents and test them to see whether they are eligible for naturalization.

Application Review (Form N-400 Questions)

The USCIS officer will likely ask you questions about the following:

• Your naturalization application, including your full name, birth date, marital status, children, current address, and previous addresses
• Your history as an immigrant and whether you have traveled outside of the US
• Employment history and tax filings
• Military service, if necessary, for your application
• Whether you have had any previous citations or arrests, even if they were ultimately dismissed
• Whether you’re a member of certain organizations
• If you have claimed to be a U.S. citizen before

It’s crucial to go over the details of your submitted application before you go to your interview because any lapses in memory or inconsistencies in what you say and what’s on paper could lead to complications with your application.

English Language Test

Although some individuals may qualify for an exception, the majority will be required to take an English language test, where they will be tested on the following:

• Their ability to speak English
• Whether they can read one simple sentence aloud
• Whether they can write one simple sentence correctly

Individuals over 50 years of age who have been living on a green card for at least 20 years may be exempt from taking the test.

Civics Test

When it comes to the civics test, you’ll be asked up to a maximum of 10 civics questions, which are drawn from a standardized list of 100. In order to pass, you’ll need to answer at least 6 of them correctly. The questions cover the structure of the U.S. government, American history, the Constitution, geography and symbols, and the rights and responsibilities of citizens.

How to Prepare Effectively

You can effectively prepare for your USCIS interview by studying the 100 civics questions and taking practice tests, as well as by thoroughly reviewing your Form N-400. Depending on your level of English, you may also want to practice speaking in class or with a tutor. A skilled attorney can help you plan accordingly and ensure that you feel ready when the time comes.

FAQs

What Types of Questions Are Asked During the U.S. Citizenship Interview?

The types of questions that may be asked during the U.S. citizenship interview include those about your general background, your Form N-400 application, and whether you are eligible for naturalization. You will also be tested on speaking, writing, and reading English, as well as on your knowledge of the structure of the U.S. government and history.

What Are Some Common N-400 Questions I Should Prepare for in 2025?

Some common N-400 questions you should prepare for in 2025 include questions about your employment history, immigration history, tax filing information, marital status, and children, and if you ever claimed to be a U.S. citizen before. You may also be asked about your criminal record, including any arrests or citations that were dismissed. An officer may also ask you about whether you’re willing to take the oath of allegiance.

How Many Civics Questions Will I Be Asked in 2025?

For the civics test, you will be asked up to 10 out of a standardized list of 100. In order to pass the civics portion of the test, you will need to correctly answer at least 6 out of 10 of the questions asked. You can prepare accordingly by taking practice tests and studying the standardized list of questions. A legal professional can also provide you with tips for success.

Will I Be Tested on My English Skills at the Interview?

Yes, at your USCIS interview, you will be tested on your ability to speak, write, and read English. The USCIS officer will generally assess your speaking abilities, and you will be requested to write and read a simple sentence. Some individuals are exempt from taking the English language test depending on their age and time spent as a permanent resident.

Work With a Skilled U.S. Citizenship Attorney Today

On the path to citizenship, the U.S. citizenship interview is a major milestone. By working with an experienced U.S. citizenship attorney from U.S. Law Center, you can take on the naturalization process with confidence. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.