For a US citizenship interview, applicants must bring their Permanent Resident Card (Green Card), government-issued photo ID, and appointment notice. Supporting documents like tax returns, marriage certificates, and evidence of continuous residence may also be required. Proof of selective service registration and any court or arrest records should be included if applicable.
What Documents are Required for Naturalization (US Citizenship) Interview?
| Number | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Biometrics Notice (ASC Appointment Letter) | The Biometrics Notice, also known as the ASC Appointment Letter, is a crucial document required for the naturalization interview to verify identity and conduct fingerprinting and background checks. Applicants must bring the original ASC Appointment Letter along with photo identification to ensure smooth processing during the U.S. citizenship application. |
| 2 | N-400 Rescheduling Receipt | The N-400 Rescheduling Receipt is a critical document required at the naturalization interview to confirm the new appointment date and time set by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Applicants must present this receipt along with their original appointment notice, valid photo identification, and all supporting documents to ensure their rescheduled interview proceeds without delay. |
| 3 | Selective Service Registration Proof | Proof of Selective Service registration is required for male applicants between the ages of 18 and 26 during the US citizenship naturalization interview, demonstrating compliance with federal law. Documents such as a Selective Service registration acknowledgment letter or a Status Information Letter from the Selective Service System serve as official evidence. |
| 4 | Continuous Residence Documentation | Continuous residence documentation for a US citizenship naturalization interview includes evidence such as rent or mortgage receipts, utility bills, tax returns, employment records, and school transcripts to prove uninterrupted residency. These documents demonstrate that the applicant has maintained a permanent residence in the United States for the required statutory period prior to applying for naturalization. |
| 5 | Tax Compliance Letter | The Tax Compliance Letter is a crucial document required for the US citizenship naturalization interview, verifying that the applicant has met all federal tax filing obligations. Submitting this letter from the IRS ensures USCIS that the applicant maintains good moral character and legal compliance essential for naturalization approval. |
| 6 | Certified Court Disposition(s) | Certified court dispositions are essential documents for the naturalization interview, providing official proof of any criminal convictions or legal proceedings, which USCIS requires to evaluate eligibility. Applicants must obtain these certified records directly from the court where the case was adjudicated, ensuring they include detailed information such as case numbers, dates, and final outcomes to avoid delays in the naturalization process. |
| 7 | IRS Tax Transcript (Recent Years) | Applicants for U.S. citizenship must bring IRS tax transcripts from the past three years to their naturalization interview as proof of tax compliance, which USCIS requires to verify lawful residence and good moral character. Recent IRS tax transcripts provide detailed records of filed federal tax returns, ensuring applicants accurately disclose income and tax filing history during the naturalization process. |
| 8 | Proof of Legal Name Change (Certified Order) | A certified order for legal name change is a critical document required during the US naturalization interview to verify identity and ensure consistency across all immigration records. This official court-issued document must clearly state the legal change of name and be presented alongside other identification documents to satisfy USCIS requirements. |
| 9 | Child Support Compliance Proof | Applicants for US citizenship must bring proof of child support compliance to their naturalization interview, including court orders and payment records demonstrating full and timely payments. Providing these documents ensures adherence to federal and state child support laws, which are critical for eligibility and adjudication during the naturalization process. |
| 10 | Employment Authorization Document (EAD) | For a US naturalization interview, applicants must present their Employment Authorization Document (EAD) as proof of legal work status alongside other identification documents. The EAD verifies the applicant's eligibility to work in the United States while their citizenship application is pending, making it a critical document during the naturalization process. |
Introduction to US Citizenship Interview Documentation
The US citizenship interview is a critical step in the naturalization process, requiring specific documents for verification. Proper preparation involves gathering identification, application forms, and evidence of residency to ensure a smooth interview experience. Understanding the necessary documentation helps you confidently approach your US Citizenship interview with all essential materials in hand.
Key Identification Documents Required
What documents are required for a naturalization interview in the United States? Key identification documents include a valid permanent resident card (Green Card) and a government-issued photo ID such as a driver's license or passport. Applicants must also bring their appointment notice and any additional supporting documents related to their application.
Proof of Lawful Permanent Residency
Proof of lawful permanent residency is a critical requirement for the US citizenship naturalization interview. Applicants must present valid Green Card documents to verify their status.
Commonly accepted proof includes the Permanent Resident Card (Form I-551). Copies of any reentry permits or travel documents may also be requested to confirm continuous residency.
Supporting Evidence of Marital Status
Supporting evidence of marital status is a critical part of your naturalization interview documentation. These documents verify your marital history and current status to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
- Marriage Certificate - Provides official proof of your marriage to your spouse.
- Divorce Decree(s) or Death Certificate(s) - Confirms the legal end of any previous marriages if applicable.
- Joint Financial Records - Demonstrates shared financial responsibilities, such as joint bank statements, leases, or tax returns, supporting the legitimacy of your marriage.
Documents for Travel and Absence History
Applicants must bring their passport, travel records, and any re-entry permits to the naturalization interview. These documents verify international travel and help assess continuous residence requirements.
Providing a detailed list of all trips outside the United States, including dates and destinations, is essential. Absence history supports the evaluation of physical presence criteria for citizenship eligibility. Failure to present accurate travel documentation can delay or negatively impact the application process.
Records of Prior Immigration Applications
When preparing for a naturalization interview, submitting accurate records of prior immigration applications is essential. These documents verify your immigration history and support your eligibility for US citizenship.
- Copies of Previous Visa Applications - Includes all forms and receipts from any visa petitions filed in your name.
- Prior Adjustment of Status Forms - Evidence of past applications to change your immigration status within the United States.
- Receipt Notices and Approval Letters - Official USCIS documents confirming the processing and approval of prior immigration requests.
Financial and Tax Return Documentation
Financial and tax return documents play a crucial role in the naturalization interview process. Providing comprehensive records helps demonstrate your compliance with U.S. tax laws and financial stability.
- Recent Tax Returns - Submit copies of your federal income tax returns for the past five years or three years if married to a U.S. citizen.
- W-2 and 1099 Forms - Include all relevant wage and income statements to verify reported earnings.
- Proof of Payment - Provide receipts or bank statements showing payment of taxes owed to avoid discrepancies.
Proper documentation facilitates a smoother evaluation of your eligibility during the U.S. citizenship interview.
Selective Service Registration Evidence
For the naturalization interview, you must provide evidence of Selective Service registration if you are a male between 18 and 26 years old. This requirement applies to most applicants who lived in the United States during that age range.
Acceptable documents include a Selective Service registration card, a status information letter from the Selective Service System, or a notarized affidavit explaining your registration status. Failure to provide this evidence could delay your citizenship application or affect eligibility.
Additional Documents for Special Cases
For the naturalization interview, certain additional documents may be required for special cases. You must provide proof of military service if applicable, such as Form DD-214 or NGB Form 22. Applicants with a criminal record need certified court dispositions and police reports relevant to their cases.
What Documents are Required for Naturalization (US Citizenship) Interview? Infographic