Naturalization and Citizenship FAQs

Here at the Law Office of Minha Javed we understand the naturalization process can feel daunting and overwhelming. To alleviate that anxiety, we’ve outlined some commonly asked questions and their answers from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services:

1. How many times can I apply for naturalization?

   There is no limit, however filing fees will need to be paid each time.

2. Does USCIS publish the naturalization test questions?

   Yes! The 2008 and 2020 versions of the civic test can be found on the USCIS website. For study resources, visit these links: https://www.uscis.gov/citizenship/find-study-materials-and-resources/study-for-the-test

   https://www.uscis.gov/citizenship/2020test

3. If I fail a portion of the naturalization test, when will I be retested?

   You will be retested during a new interview on the portion of the test that you failed (English or civics) between 60 and 90 days from the date of your initial interview. You will be retested on the same version.

4. Does USCIS make frequent changes to the questions on the naturalization test?

   No, however answers may change due to elections or appointments. Be mindful of current news to have the most current answers as you study.

5. What should I do if I have already applied for naturalization and my Permanent Resident Card, also known as “Green Card,” is expiring?

   You must generally apply to renew your expiring Green Card even if you have applied for naturalization.

6. Will I be asked all of the civics questions during the naturalization interview?

   For the 2008 test, you will be asked 10 of the 100 questions from the list. For the 2020 test, you will be asked 20 of the 120 questions.

7. How will I know what the decision is on the Form N-648, Medical Certification for Disability Exceptions, I submitted?

   The decision on your Form N-648 will be made at the time of your naturalization interview.

8. Because my Green Card allows me to travel between the United States and my home country, can I live in both places until I am ready to apply for citizenship?

   Generally applicants must demonstrate they have continuously resided in the United States for at least 5 years before submitting an application for naturalization. Thus, you cannot reside anywhere else. You also must demonstrate you spend at least half of your time in the United States.

9. When should I submit Form N-648, Medical Certification for Disability Exceptions?

   An applicant may file the disability exception form during any part of the naturalization process, including after the application is filed but before the first examination, during the first examination, during the re-examination if the applicant’s first examination was rescheduled, and during the rehearing on a denied naturalization application.

10. Will USCIS approve my Form N-400 naturalization application once I pass the reading, writing, and civics portions of the naturalization test?

    No. In addition to preparing for the reading, writing, and civics portion of the naturalization test, you will need to prepare for the speaking portion of the naturalization test and meet all other naturalization requirements. The speaking test occurs during the eligibility review. You can find study resources for this portion here: https://www.uscis.gov/citizenship/find-study-materials-and-resources/study-for-the-test

11. Do I need to bring original documents such as birth and marriage certificates to the naturalization interview?

    Yes. You should bring certain original documents to your interview. You can find an extensive list here: https://www.uscis.gov/n-400 in the N-400 instructions .

12. Can I legally change my name while my naturalization application is pending?

    Yes. You can legally change your name after filing your application for naturalization with USCIS. You can also change after you’ve been naturalized.