Every year on September 17, the U.S. celebrates Constitution Day and Citizenship Day as part of Constitution Week. This day honors the signing of the U.S. Constitution in 1787 and recognizes the importance of U.S. citizenship. This year, between September 14-23, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) naturalized over 400 naturalization ceremonies, welcoming more than 17,000 new citizens across the country.
This is also a good time to think about applying for U.S. citizenship. The process, known as naturalization, is the final step for many immigrants who want to become U.S. citizens. Here’s what you need to know about applying and why this day is important.
How to Apply for U.S. Citizenship
The path to U.S. citizenship, also known as naturalization, involves several steps. The process may seem complex, but with the right resources and support, you can move through it confidently.
- Check Your Eligibility
Before applying for citizenship in the U.S., ensure you meet the requirements. To apply for naturalization, you must
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Have held a Green Card for at least five years (or three years if married to a U.S. citizen).
- Demonstrate continuous residency and physical presence in the U.S.
- Show good moral character.
- Pass the English language and civics test.
- Take the Oath of Allegiance.
- File Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization)
You will need Form N-400, Application for Naturalization to begin the citizenship process. You can either file it online or by mail, but ensure that all your documentation is accurate and complete to avoid delays. - Attend Biometrics Appointment (if required)
You may need to provide fingerprints, photographs, and signatures as part of your application. This step helps USCIS verify your background. - Prepare for the Naturalization Test
You will need to prepare for the naturalization test, as you will be tested on your knowledge of U.S. history, government, and the English language. You can access study materials through the USCIS website or community resources. - Attend the Citizenship Interview and Test
During your interview, a USCIS officer will review your application and ask questions about your background and your understanding of U.S. civics. You must also complete the civics test. (Find sample questions below.) - Take the Oath of Allegiance
Once your naturalization application is approved, you will be asked to participate in a naturalization ceremony where you must take the Oath of Allegiance, completing your journey to U.S. citizenship.
Why Constitution Day and Citizenship Day Matters
This special day is more than just a celebration; it’s a reminder of the values that make the U.S. a great place to live. As a U.S. citizen, you’ll have the right to vote, freedom of speech, and many other rights protected by the Constitution. Constitution Day also highlights the responsibilities of being a citizen, like participating in your community and supporting democracy.
If you’re applying for citizenship, Constitution Day and Citizenship Day is a reminder of the big step you’re taking toward becoming part of a nation built on freedom, justice, and equality.
Naturalization Test – Sample Civics Test Questions
Part of the naturalization process is passing the civics test. This test checks your knowledge of U.S. history and government. Here are some sample questions to help you prepare.
- What is the supreme law of the land?
- Answer: The Constitution.
- What do we call the first ten amendments to the Constitution?
- Answer: The Bill of Rights.
- Who was the first President of the United States?
- Answer: George Washington.
- What are two rights in the Declaration of Independence?
- Answer: Life and Liberty.
- Who is in charge of the executive branch?
- Answer: The President.
These are just a few examples of what you’ll need to know for your naturalization test. You can find more practice questions and helpful resources on the USCIS Citizenship Resource Center website.
USCIS’s Efforts to Promote Citizenship
The Biden-Harris administration and USCIS are working hard to make citizenship more accessible. Programs like the Citizenship and Integration Grant Program offer support to immigrants, helping them learn English and prepare for citizenship. The Citizenship Ambassadors initiative also helps promote citizenship by sharing the experiences of immigrants who have gone through the process.
These efforts make it easier for more people to become U.S. citizens and fully participate in American life.
Recent USCIS Efforts to Improve Naturalization
In addition to celebrating Constitution Day and Citizenship Day, USCIS has made significant strides to improve the naturalization process. A few notable efforts include:
- Reducing Backlogs: USCIS has reduced the waiting time for processing Form N-400 to under six months, the fastest time in over a decade.
- Social Security Card Made Easier: If you’re applying for naturalization, you can now request a Social Security card as part of the process, avoiding the need to visit a Social Security office later. This will save time and simplify the process, as well.
- Citizenship and Integration Grants: Since 2009, USCIS has awarded 644 grants to organizations providing citizenship preparation and English language services, making it easier for lawful permanent residents to prepare for naturalization.
These changes make it easier and faster to become a U.S. citizen.
Conclusion
As we celebrate Constitution Day and Citizenship Day, it’s a great time to think about the benefits of U.S. citizenship. If you’re considering applying for naturalization, now is the perfect time to start. The process has become faster, and there are many resources to help you along the way.
Visit the USCIS Citizenship Resource Center or Imagility’s Naturalization resource page to learn more about the application process, and make 2024 the year you start your journey to U.S. citizenship.
