What happens if I fail the citizenship test?

Applications, petitions, forms, checks… A permanent resident has gone through all of this to become a US citizen. Next step, the exam.

But what happens if a person fails the US citizenship test? At Quiroga Law Office, PLLC, we will tell you.

Remember that naturalization is a process by which someone becomes a US citizen if he/she was born outside the country.

Is there an age requirement to become a US citizen?

To apply for naturalization some requirements must be met, and age is only one of them:

• Be at least 18 years old at the time you file the application.
• Have been a Lawful permanent resident for the last five years (Green Card).
• Have continuous residence in the US for five years before the application date.
• Have a physical presence of at least 30 months in the five years before the request.
• Demonstrate good moral character.
• Demonstrate loyalty to the Constitution and its principles.
• Speak, read, and write basic English.
• Demonstrate knowledge of American history and government.
• Be willing to take the oath of allegiance to the United States.

The naturalization application is submitted to USCIS, and they will tell you the procedure to follow and the costs.

After submitting the application, you will be noticed for fingerprints and schedule an interview. During the interview, you will take the naturalization test, the final step for becoming a US citizen.

What is the American citizenship test like?

The exam must be taken before a USCIS officer and is composed of two parts:

• Civics test. A USCIS officer will ask you 10 questions from a list of 100. You must correctly answer 6 to pass.
• English test. It is divided into three parts, conversation, reading, and writing.
  • Speaking test. The officer will determine your ability to speak English.
  • Reading test. You must read one or two sentences in English correctly.
  • Writing test. You will need to spell one to three sentences in English correctly.

Also read: Get the questions and answers of the United States Citizenship Test – Part 1

After passing the exam, USCIS will notify its decision, if approved, you will be noticed to attend the naturalization ceremony.

There you will take the oath of allegiance and then receive your certificate of naturalization, official evidence that you are already a US citizen.

What if I fail the citizenship test?

Although it may seem like the end of the world, failing the citizenship test has no immigration consequences for the applicant. You will have the opportunity to take the English and civics test again in order to become a citizen.

USCIS will schedule the new interview between 60 and 90 days from the date of the initial interview so you can take the exam.

If you fail the exam again, you must restart the citizenship application process.

If this is your case, you should seek the advice of an immigration attorney. Only then you will know how to proceed in your situation.

At Quiroga Law Office, PLLC, we are willing to help. We can advise you about the immigration procedures that you and your family need.

Do not hesitate to contact us. Our team of lawyers will take care of your case and will be with you throughout the process.

Request a consultation or call us, (509) 498-3485.