1. What is the purpose of the Oath of Allegiance?
The Oath of Allegiance is a pledge of loyalty to a nation, state, or sovereign. It is typically taken by citizens, immigrants, and military personnel. The primary intent of the Oath is to affirm one’s loyalty to the nation, and to reaffirm the duties and responsibilities of citizenship.
2. What do I have to promise in the Oath of Allegiance?
The Oath of Allegiance requires you to promise to “support and defend the Constitution and laws of the United States of America against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; and that I will obey the orders of the President of the United States and the orders of the officers appointed over me, according to regulations and the Uniform Code of Military Justice”.
3. How does taking the Oath of Allegiance make me a U.S. citizen?
By signing the Oath of Allegiance, you are committing yourself to the Constitution and laws of the United States, and you are pledging loyalty to the United States. This fulfills the legal requirements for naturalization and you are deemed a U.S. citizen.
4. Who administers the Oath of Allegiance?
The Oath of Allegiance is typically administered by a federal judge or other qualified official, such as a notary public or military officer.
5. What documents do I need to bring to my Oath of Allegiance ceremony?
You will need to bring proof of identity for the Oath of Allegiance ceremony. This could include a valid passport, driver’s license, permanent resident card, birth certificate, or other government-issued identification. Additionally, you may need to bring a certified copy of your green card as well as any other documents that are required by the USCIS.
6. What happens if I miss my scheduled Oath of Allegiance ceremony?
If you miss your scheduled Oath of Allegiance ceremony, you will need to contact the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) office that scheduled the ceremony to reschedule a new appointment.
7. Can I bring family and friends with me to my Oath of Allegiance ceremony?
Yes, you may bring family and friends with you to your Oath of Allegiance ceremony. However, they will not be able to participate in the ceremony or take the oath themselves.
8. How long does an Oath of Allegiance ceremony usually last?
An Oath of Allegiance ceremony usually lasts around 15 minutes.
9. What should I wear to my Oath of Allegiance ceremony?
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) does not have a dress code for your Oath of Allegiance ceremony. However, it is customary to dress in smart business attire, such as a suit or dress. You may also wear traditional dress from your country of origin, if you prefer.
10. When will I receive my Certificate of Naturalization after taking the Oath of Allegiance?
You will receive your Certificate of Naturalization on the same day that you take the Oath of Allegiance.
11. What is the Pledge of Allegiance and when do I say it during the Oath of Allegiance ceremony?
The Pledge of Allegiance is a statement of loyalty to the United States that is commonly recited as part of patriotic ceremonies and other public gatherings. It is usually recited immediately following the Oath of Allegiance during naturalization ceremonies. The Pledge reads: “I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America, and to the Republic for which it stands, one Nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.”
12. Is there a fee to take the Oath of Allegiance?
No, there is no fee to take the Oath of Allegiance.
13. Am I allowed to request a special location for my Oath of Allegiance ceremony?
No. The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) determines the location of your Oath of Allegiance ceremony. You cannot request a specific location.
14. Can I bring a translator with me to my Oath of Allegiance ceremony?
Yes, you may bring a translator with you to your Oath of Allegiance ceremony. Your translator must be fluent in both English and your native language.
15. Will there be other people taking the Oath of Allegiance with me?
Yes, other people are usually present to take the Oath of Allegiance with you.
16. Is it necessary for me to learn the English language in order to take the Oath of Allegiance?
Yes, you must be able to understand and speak English in order to take the Oath of Allegiance.
17. Am I allowed to request a private swearing-in ceremony for my Oath of Allegiance?
Yes, you are allowed to request a private swearing-in ceremony for your Oath of Allegiance. However, the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) may not always be able to accommodate such requests.
18. What is the difference between the Immigration Service Naturalization test and the Oath of Allegiance ceremony?
The Immigration Service Naturalization Test is an exam given to immigrants to test their knowledge of U.S. history and civics. It consists of ten questions that must be answered correctly. The Oath of Allegiance ceremony is the final step in the naturalization process and involves taking an oath to uphold the Constitution and laws of the United States.
19. Can I take the Oath of Allegiance before my green card expiration date?
Yes. The Oath of Allegiance is generally taken during the naturalization ceremony, but it can also be taken ahead of the expiration date of a green card.
20. What will happen if I cannot recite the Oath of Allegiance due to a medical condition?
If you are unable to recite the Oath of Allegiance due to a medical condition, you have the option of affirming your commitment to the United States. Speak with a United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) officer to let them know your situation and discuss potential alternatives.