The Oath ceremony is a tradition dating back to the 18th century. When taking the Oath, the new citizen promises to fulfill the following duties: Support and defend the U.S. Constitution and the laws of the United States against its enemies .
Why do new citizens have to be sworn in?
This is important because the U.S. wants its citizens to be loyal to the United States . The Oath also asks you to support the Constitution and to defend its values. ... The Oath also asks you to defend and uphold these values by being willing to serve in the armed forces and perform work of national importance.
What does the Oath of Allegiance require new citizens to do?
The Naturalization Act of 1906 added the section of the oath requiring new citizens to defend the Constitution and laws of the United States of America against all enemies, foreign and domestic ; and bear true faith and allegiance to the same.
Can you become a citizen without taking the Oath?
USCIS accepts an oath waiver request at any point of the naturalization process. The INA permits USCIS to waive the taking of the Oath of Allegiance if USCIS determines the person is unable to understand its meaning.
Can I wear jeans to Oath ceremony?
USCIS instructs all applicants to dress in attire that “respects the dignity” of the Oath of Allegiance ceremony. The agency specifically prohibits wearing jeans, shorts, and flip flops .
What is next after Oath ceremony?
After taking the Oath of Allegiance you will officially become a US citizen and have the right to vote , apply for and carry a US passport, hold public office, work for the US government, serve as or on a jury, and serve in the US Armed Forces.
Do you know what an oath is?
a solemn appeal to a deity , or to some revered person or thing, to witness one's determination to speak the truth, to keep a promise, etc.: to testify upon oath. ... a statement or promise strengthened by such an appeal.
What happens if I miss my oath ceremony?
Can I reschedule my Oath ceremony? The oath of allegiance ceremony is the final stage in the naturalization process after the naturalization interview with the USCIS . ... Bear in mind that if you miss two oath ceremonies without explaining, USCIS will refuse your application, and you will have to start the procedure over.
How long does it take to get passport after oath ceremony?
Be prepared to pay not only the application fee (check the latest on the Passport Fees page of the State Department website) but the fee to have the completed passport mailed to you. Normally, there's a wait of around six weeks to receive your U.S. passport.
Can citizenship be denied after passing interview?
If you received a notice stating that your N-400 was denied after the interview, this means that the USCIS officer has found you ineligible for naturalization . The USCIS policy manual on naturalization lists nine grounds that the USCIS officer may deny your application.
What should I wear to my citizenship interview?
It's not necessary to dress formally for your U.S. citizenship interview and test. You may dress comfortably but look professional. “Business casual” is a good rule of thumb. Avoid wearing jeans, shorts and t-shirts.
What is one responsibility that is only for United States citizens?
United States citizens vote in federal elections and serve on juries . It is the responsibility of United States citizens to vote in federal elections. Voting is important.
How much time does the oath ceremony last?
The ceremony itself may take about one hour . Most ceremonies follow a similar order of proceedings.
How long does it take to get citizenship after applying 2020?
The average processing time for citizenship (naturalization) applications is 8 months as of May 31, 2020. However, that's just how long it takes USCIS to process Form N-400. The entire naturalization process has several steps and takes an average of 15 months.
How long does it take for oath ceremony to be scheduled?
Generally speaking, you should receive your notice by mail within 3 – 6 weeks of your citizenship interview. After that, the oath ceremony should be scheduled within the next few weeks .
Does Social Security number change after citizenship?
You will need to visit Social Security so they can update your Social Security record . Wait at least 10 days after your ceremony before doing so and be prepared to show them your Certificate of Naturalization or your U.S. passport. ... As a new U.S. citizen, you may register to vote.
