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What to bring to your U.S. citizenship interview

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A practical naturalization interview checklist with core documents, case-specific records, and day-of tips.

A practical naturalization interview checklist with core documents, case-specific records, and day-of tips.
entrevistadocumentosN-400USCISnaturalización

Interview day is stressful enough without showing up and realizing you forgot something important. This checklist helps you organize your documents early and arrive with more confidence.

Required documents

Bring the original versions of these items:

  • Your interview appointment notice
  • Your Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
  • A government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license or state ID
  • Your current passport and older passports you used while you were a permanent resident

Additional documents you may need

Bring extra records if they apply to your case.

If you are applying based on marriage to a U.S. citizen:

  • Marriage certificate
  • Proof of your spouse’s U.S. citizenship
  • Divorce decrees or death certificates from earlier marriages, if relevant

If you have had arrests or legal issues:

  • Arrest records
  • Court dispositions
  • Proof that you completed probation, fines, or other penalties

If you owe taxes or made a payment plan:

  • Recent IRS tax transcripts or proof of payment arrangements

If something changed after you filed N-400:

  • Proof of a new address, new job, new trip, or any other update you need to explain to the officer

What happens during the interview?

Most interviews include:

  1. Identity verification
  2. Review of your N-400 answers
  3. The civics test in English unless you qualify for an exception
  4. One reading sentence
  5. One writing sentence

Many interviews take around 15 to 30 minutes, although some are shorter or longer depending on the case.

Day-of tips

  • Arrive 15 to 20 minutes early
  • Dress neatly and comfortably
  • Silence your phone before entering the building
  • Answer honestly and directly
  • Ask the officer to repeat a question if you do not understand it
  • Review your N-400 the night before so dates and names are fresh in your mind

If your English is limited

The test is in English unless you qualify for an age-and-residence exception such as 50/20, 55/15, or 65/20. If you qualify, you may take the civics test in your language with an interpreter.

CiudadanoUSA helps you practice the interview flow in English before the real appointment. Download the app and rehearse with less pressure.