What do I need to bring to the citizenship oath ceremony?

You need to bring a few items to the Oath of Allegiance ceremony. This includes your completed Form N-445, green card and a form of photo identification. Also bring any travel documents that USCIS issued you, if applicable. These include a re-entry permit for foreign travel and a refugee travel document.

What is the dress code for the oath of allegiance ceremony?

The Oath of Allegiance ceremony dress code is generally business casual or formal. You want to present yourself in a respectable manner, reflecting the significance of the event. Men often wear slacks, a collared shirt and dress shoes. Suits, ties or blazers aren’t mandatory but may be worn if you’d like. For women, slacks, skirts, blouses, dresses and dress shoes are appropriate. Children who attend typically wear neat, semi-formal attire suitable for a special occasion. The following items are considered inappropriate for the allegiance ceremony: casual items (like shorts, T-shirts, flip-flops, hats, and head coverings that aren’t worn for religious reasons), revealing clothing and anything that others may consider offensive, controversial or indecent.

Do I need to memorize the Oath of Allegiance?

You don’t need to memorize the Oath of Allegiance. At the naturalization ceremony, USCIS personnel will provide the Oath of Allegiance to you in written form. In addition, a special official may lead the oath so that participants like yourself may follow along. While it’s not required, you may choose to review the oath in advance to familiarize yourself with its content. However, the ceremony is structured to guide you through the process, ensuring that you and your new fellow citizens may recite the oath accurately and confidently.

Can I invite family and friends to my citizenship ceremony?

Yes, you may invite family and friends to your citizenship ceremony. The Oath of Allegiance ceremony is a significant milestone in the naturalization process, marking the moment when immigrants officially become U.S. citizens. This is a momentous occasion, so it’s only natural to want to share it with your loved ones.

Oath of Allegiance Ceremony: What to Expect

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After maneuvering through extensive paperwork and enduring long waiting periods, the Oath of Allegiance ceremony represents the final step of the naturalization process to becoming a U.S. citizen. It’s a celebratory moment, yet the ceremony has several key requirements.

In this article, we provide insight into the ceremony proceedings and offer guidance on how to prepare for it. Read on to learn more about what you may expect before, during and after the allegiance ceremony.

Understanding the Oath of Allegiance ceremony

The Oath of Allegiance ceremony is the grand finale of the U.S. naturalization process. During it, you transition from holding a green card as a lawful permanent resident to being a full-fledged citizen.

The ceremony has roots stretching back centuries, with its earliest forms appearing in colonial America. When the first naturalization law passed in 1790, an oath of allegiance was part of the process for foreigners to become U.S. citizens. The oath’s wording has evolved, reflecting the nation’s growth and changing values. Similarly, the procedures surrounding the ceremony have flowed with time.

Regardless of these minor changes the ceremony’s main event has remained the same: the Oath of Allegiance. With this, you pledge loyalty to the United States and solidify your status as a U.S. citizen.

Here are some things to keep in mind:

Setting: Depending on the location and number of participants, the ceremony might happen in a courtroom, convention center or stadium. Expect flags, dignitaries and a palpable sense of pride in the air.
Duration: Typically, the ceremony lasts about 30 minutes to an hour. However, you should arrive at least 30 minutes early to check in with United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). You’ll also likely want to hang around afterward for formalities or celebrations.
Dress code: The ceremony is a formal event, so dress like you’re going for an important interview or a special occasion. Consider business or business-casual attire, and avoid jeans, shorts and flip-flops.
Documents: Bring your green card and any other requested documents. After the ceremony, you’ll exchange your green card for a Certificate of Naturalization.

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Preparing for the Oath of Allegiance ceremony

Understanding the Oath of Allegiance ceremony requirements is much easier when you break them down into a step-by-step process.

1. Receive the invitation

If USCIS has everything it needs to approve your application based on your Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization) and interview, it may offer you the option to take your Oath of Allegiance on the same day as your interview. If that happens, USCIS will ask you to return to the office later in the day.

In most cases, though, after you successfully pass your naturalization interview, USCIS mails you a Form N-445, Notice of Naturalization Oath Ceremony. This document specifies the date, time and location of the Oath of Allegiance ceremony to attend. Double-check all details on the notice for accuracy. Report any mistakes to USCIS immediately, because even small mistakes may delay your naturalization process.

2. Complete the questionnaire

If you received a Form N-445, on the back is a questionnaire. These questions pertain to your activities and character since your citizenship interview. Your responses help USCIS ensure that you still meet all eligibility requirements for naturalization. Answer all the questions honestly before arriving at the ceremony.

3. Gather necessary documents

Bring your green card, completed Form N-445 (if applicable) and any other identification requested in your ceremony notice or after your interview. You may need a driver’s license, state identification card or passport.

4. Arrive early

It’s crucial to arrive at the specified location at least 30 minutes before the ceremony starts, especially if it’s in a larger venue. This will give you time to park and get through security.

5. Check in

Before taking the oath, USCIS officials will ask you to surrender your green card. This is because you won’t need it anymore; you’ll soon be a U.S. citizen. You’ll also show your appointment notice to a USCIS official so they can verify that you’re on the list of attendees. Once the official confirms your attendance, you’ll receive a welcome packet. This often includes items like a copy of the U.S. Constitution and an American flag.

6. Participate in the ceremony

The ceremony may open with speakers, presentations and music. When instructed, stand, raise your right hand and recite the Oath of Allegiance with the group. You may also recite the Pledge of Allegiance and sing songs, such as the national anthem.

7. Receive your naturalization certificate

After the oath, you’ll receive your Certificate of Naturalization. Review it for accuracy immediately and notify a USCIS official if you find any errors. Then congratulate yourself for reaching the end of your citizenship journey, and celebrate with family, loved ones and friends.

Modifications to the Oath of Allegiance

Some people have objections to certain parts of the Oath of Allegiance based on their personal beliefs. For instance, religious pacifists may feel uncomfortable with swearing to bear arms on behalf of the country. Other people may object to the phrase “so help me God” at the end of the oath.

You can request modifications to the oath to fit with your personal beliefs. However, you must notify USCIS before the ceremony and provide adequate explanation or proof to support your claim.

After the Oath of Allegiance ceremony

After the Oath of Allegiance ceremony, there are several steps that can help you transition into your new status as a U.S. citizen:

Visit your local Social Security Administration (SSA) office to update your citizenship status. This is vital for receiving federal benefits and filling out a tax return.

2. Apply for a U.S. passport

While your Certificate of Naturalization serves as evidence of your U.S. citizenship, a U.S. passport is more portable proof. You may apply for one at certain post offices and Department of State agencies.

3. Register to vote

As a U.S. citizen, you have the right to vote in federal, state and local elections. You may register at local government offices, public assistance offices or when you renew your driver’s license.

4. Update your I-9 records

If you have a job, inform your employer of your new status and update your Employment Eligibility Verification form (Form I-9). Doing so affects your tax withholdings and helps you receive the appropriate benefits.

U.S. citizens may sponsor their family members for U.S. permanent residency or citizenship. If you have family members interested in becoming U.S. citizens, consider starting this process.

How an attorney may help

The Oath of Allegiance ceremony is largely a celebratory event. However, you may find an experienced immigration attorney helpful in processes to reach the ceremony. They can assist you with completing and submitting your N-400, responding to any requests for evidence (RFEs) and preparing for your interview.

Sofie Wise

Sofie is a writer. She lives in Brooklyn.