USCIS appointments
What happens, what to take, and what to avoid.
Oath Ceremony
1-2 hoursThe oath ceremony is the final step in becoming a United States citizen. You will take the Oath of Allegiance, surrender your green card, and receive your Certificate of Naturalization.
What happens
- 1Arrive at the ceremony venue (courthouse, USCIS office, or civic center) and check in
- 2You will be asked to turn in your green card -- this is required
- 3Staff will review your N-445 questionnaire (questions about activities since your interview)
- 4You will be seated with other new citizens in the ceremony hall
- 5A USCIS officer or judge will give opening remarks about the significance of citizenship
- 6All candidates will stand and recite the Oath of Allegiance together
- 7You will receive your Certificate of Naturalization -- verify all information is correct immediately
- 8Many ceremonies include a welcome address, video message from the President, and small American flag
Take with you
Before the day
- 1
Complete Form N-4451 week before
Answer all questions on the N-445 form honestly. Questions cover whether you have traveled, been arrested, or changed your answer to any N-400 question since your interview.
- 2
Review ceremony logistics3 days before
Note the exact date, time, and location. Some ceremonies are at courthouses, others at USCIS offices or large venues. Confirm parking or transit.
- 3
Prepare your green card for surrenderDay before
You must turn in your green card at the ceremony. Make a photocopy for your records before the ceremony.
- 4
Invite friends and familyDay before
Many ceremonies allow guests. Check your notice for guest policies and any restrictions on the number of guests.
- 5
Arrive early and dressed appropriatelyDay of
Arrive 30-45 minutes early. Dress nicely -- this is a formal civic occasion. Bring your notice, green card, and completed N-445.
What people get wrong
- Forgetting to bring your green card -- this is the most important item to bring
- Not completing the N-445 form before arriving at the ceremony
- Not checking your Certificate of Naturalization for errors before leaving the venue
- Traveling internationally between the interview approval and oath ceremony
- Getting arrested or having legal issues between the interview and oath ceremony
- Missing the ceremony without notifying USCIS -- this can delay your citizenship
Afterwards
Apply for a US passport as soon as possible -- your Certificate of Naturalization is your proof of citizenship until then Register to vote -- you are now eligible to vote in all US elections Update your Social Security record to reflect US citizenship by visiting your local SSA office Update your employer (Form I-9) to reflect your new citizenship status Store your Certificate of Naturalization in a secure location (safe deposit box or fireproof safe) If you want to sponsor relatives for immigration, you can now file petitions as a US citizen Consider updating your estate planning documents to reflect your citizenship Celebrate -- you are now a United States citizen
Worth knowing
- Make a photocopy of your green card before the ceremony -- you will not get it back
- Check your Certificate of Naturalization carefully before leaving -- verify your name, date of birth, and photo
- Bring a pen to complete any remaining items on the N-445 form
- Guests are usually welcome but check your notice for any restrictions
- This is a celebration -- enjoy the moment and take photos afterward
- Some ceremonies offer same-day passport applications -- check if this is available at your location
- If you cannot attend, contact USCIS to reschedule before the ceremony date
- Do not travel internationally between your interview and oath ceremony without advance parole
Questions
Can I reschedule my oath ceremony?
Yes, but you must contact USCIS before the ceremony date. Send a written request to the field office with your reason. Rescheduling may delay your citizenship by weeks or months.
What if I find an error on my Certificate?
Report it immediately at the ceremony before you leave. USCIS staff can note the error and arrange for a corrected certificate. If you find it later, file Form N-565 to request a replacement.
Can I keep my green card?
No. You are required to surrender your green card at the oath ceremony. USCIS will destroy it. Make a photocopy beforehand for your personal records.
When can I apply for a passport?
You can apply for a US passport immediately after receiving your Certificate of Naturalization. Some ceremony locations offer expedited passport applications on-site.
Do I automatically lose my previous citizenship?
It depends on your country of origin. Some countries allow dual citizenship, others do not. The US does not require you to formally renounce your previous citizenship, but the oath includes a renunciation clause.
If you cannot attend, reschedule before the date on your notice — not turning up without rescheduling can have an application treated as abandoned. Find your office on the offices page.