Whether you are applying in Kentucky or any other state, the process of becoming a U.S. citizen, known as naturalization, is the same across the board.
According to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, once your naturalization application has been accepted, you will be notified for the collection of any biometrics, if needed. This includes your photograph, fingerprints and signature. Once collected, your fingerprints will be sent to the Federal Bureau of Investigation, or FBI, so a background check can be conducted.
You will be given information during this time regarding the upcoming English and civics portion of the process. The USCIS website also offers online resources to help you during your preparation and can assist you in finding a class that is offered in your area that focuses on instruction for either citizenship preparation, English or both.
You can expect a notice via mail stating the time and date for your naturalization interview at the USCIS office. Be sure to bring your notice, all necessary documentation and your state-issued identification to that meeting.
During your naturalization interview, you will be asked about various details on your application by a USCIS officer as well as about your background. Assuming you have not qualified for a waiver, the English and civics tests will follow. The English portion focuses on speaking, reading and writing while the civics test touches on the country’s history and government-related topics.
Once the interview process is successfully passed, you will receive a Notice of Naturalization Oath Ceremony, or Form N-445, which you will fill out and bring with you to the ceremony. Upon arrival, you will turn your Permanent Resident Card over to the USCIS and an officer will go over your responses on the Form N-445.
You will now be ready to take the Oath of Allegiance, followed by receipt of your Certificate of Naturalization. At this point, you will officially be a U.S. citizen.
This post is to be informative only and should not be considered as legal advice.
