After the U.S. Citizenship Interview: What’s Next

Passing your naturalization interview is a huge achievement — the moment you’ve been working toward for months or even years. But what happens next? Many applicants wonder how long it takes to receive their United States Citizenship after the interview, when the Oath Ceremony happens, and what steps follow afterward.

 This guide explains exactly what to expect after your U.S. citizenship interview — from the Oath of Allegiance to your first U.S. passport — and explores the rich traditions behind the naturalization ceremony, one of the most emotional milestones in the journey to United States Citizenship.

1.  What Happens After You Pass the Citizenship Interview

Once you successfully complete your naturalization interview and pass both the English and civics tests, you are almost at the finish line. The USCIS officer will usually:

1. Approve your application on the spot, or

2. Continue the case for review, or

3. Request additional documents (Request for Evidence).

If you are approved, congratulations! Your journey toward United States Citizenship is nearly complete! Within a few weeks, you’ll receive a Notice of Naturalization Oath Ceremony (Form N-445) in the mail. This notice contains the date, time, and location of your ceremony — the final step in becoming a citizen of the United States.

2.  How Soon Is the Naturalization Ceremony After the Interview?

The wait time between the interview and the naturalization ceremony can vary. On average, the Oath Ceremony for United States Citizenship takes place between 1 and 3 months after the interview. In some cases, especially when USCIS offices have availability, the ceremony might even occur the same day as your interview.

If you requested a legal name change during your naturalization process, your Oath Ceremony will typically take place in a courthouse, since the name change must be legally approved by the court as part of your United States Citizenship process.

3.  The Naturalization Ceremony: A Celebration of United States Citizenship

The Oath Ceremony is the most emotional and symbolic moment in the journey to United States Citizenship. It transforms approved applicants into full U.S. citizens.

What to Bring

At the ceremony, you’ll need to bring:

• Your green card (Permanent Resident Card) — which will be surrendered.

• The Oath Ceremony notice (Form N-445).

• Any other USCIS documents requested in your notice.

What Happens During the Ceremony

1. You’ll check in and return your green card.

2. You’ll take the Oath of Allegiance — a solemn promise to uphold and defend the U.S. Constitution.

3. You’ll receive your Certificate of Naturalization, the official proof of your United States Citizenship.

This certificate is one of the most important documents you’ll ever hold. It serves as permanent evidence that you are now a citizen of the United States.

 4.  The Oath of Allegiance: The Heart of United States Citizenship

The Oath of Allegiance is what officially grants you United States Citizenship. By reciting it, you declare your loyalty to the United States and your commitment to its values. The Oath reads: “I hereby declare, on oath, that I absolutely and entirely renounce and abjure all allegiance and fidelity to any foreign prince, potentate, state, or sovereignty... that I will support and defend the Constitution and laws of the United States of America.”

Taking the Oath is both a legal and emotional experience. It signifies your acceptance of all the rights and responsibilities that come with United States Citizenship, including the duty to vote, obey the law, and participate in civic life.

Interesting Facts About the Oath Ceremony 

• The first formal Oath of Allegiance dates back to 1790, when the first Naturalization Act was passed.

• Ceremonies are often held on Independence Day, welcoming new citizens as part of national celebrations.

• Every year, over 700,000 people take the Oath and officially gain United States Citizenship.

• Some ceremonies are held in iconic locations such as Mount Vernon, Ellis Island, or national parks to symbolize America’s history and unity.

 5.  Receiving Your Certificate of Naturalization

Once you take the Oath, you’ll receive your Certificate of Naturalization, which officially documents your new United States Citizenship status. Always check your certificate carefully before leaving the ceremony. Make sure your name, date of birth, and A-number are all correct. This certificate is your proof of citizenship and will be required when you apply for a U.S. passport or update your records with Social Security and other agencies. Keep your certificate in a safe place. Do not laminate or fold it. If you ever lose it, you’ll need to file Form N-565 to request a replacement.

6.  Applying for a U.S. Passport After United States Citizenship

Becoming a citizen doesn’t automatically give you a passport. It must be applied for separately. After receiving your United States Citizenship, you can apply for a U.S. passport at most local post offices, courthouses, or passport agencies.

You’ll need:

• Your Certificate of Naturalization

• A passport photo

• Proof of identity (driver’s license or state ID)

• The passport application form (DS-11)

• The applicable fee

Once processed, your passport will serve as proof of your United States Citizenship abroad and as your key to international travel under U.S. protection.

 7.  Changing Your Name Through Naturalization

If you requested a legal name change during your United States Citizenship application, it becomes official when the judge signs the order at your Oath Ceremony. Your Certificate of Naturalization will reflect your new legal name. Afterward, you’ll need to update your Social Security card, driver’s license, bank accounts, and other records.

8.  After United States Citizenship: Your New Rights and Responsibilities

Achieving United States Citizenship opens doors to countless opportunities, but it also comes with civic duties. As a new citizen, you now have the right to:

• Vote in all U.S. elections.

• Run for public office (except President or Vice President).

• Serve on a jury.

• Apply for federal jobs reserved for citizens.

• Obtain a U.S. passport and travel freely.

And you take on responsibilities such as:

• Participating in democracy, by voting and staying informed.

• Obeying all laws and respecting others’ rights.

• Serving your community through civic engagement.

 These privileges and obligations are the essence of United States Citizenship — a balance between freedom and duty.

9.  Interesting Facts About Naturalization Ceremonies

• The largest naturalization ceremonies in history have hosted over 10,000 new citizens at once.

• Some new citizens choose to wear traditional clothing from their birth countries to celebrate diversity.

• Music and speeches often accompany the event, creating an atmosphere of joy, pride, and unity.

Every Oath Ceremony reminds us that United States Citizenship is not just a legal process — it’s a story of hope, perseverance, and belonging.

10.  Final Step: Celebrate Your United States Citizenship

When you leave the USCIS Office with your Certificate of Naturalization in hand, you officially join a family of over 330 million Americans who share in the rights and responsibilities of United States Citizenship. Take a moment to celebrate this life-changing achievement. And remember, your new chapter is just beginning - as a voter, traveler, and proud participant in American life.

To make sure your journey to United States Citizenship goes smoothly, explore the BeCitizen App. It helps applicants prepare for the citizenship interview, master the civics test, and understand every step of the naturalization process with confidence.