I came from Canada for grad school and never went back, except for visits. I married into a green card (but don’t tell my wife of 42 years).
My application was submitted last September. I got called in for a “biometrics appointment” (i.e., fingerprints and photo) in October. I got a notice in December that I was to show up today for the citizenship test and interview.
Today’s visit took about a half hour. First, a pass through the metal detector. Then, a brief check-in at window #1, with photo and fingerprints to verify I was the same person. Next, at window #2, I was sworn in and warned that anything I say — or don’t say - could be used against me and my application. Still at window #2, I was administered the citizenship (perfect!). Then I sat and waited for about 15 or 20 minutes until I was called up for the interview in an office in the back. The interview consisted of a bunch of questions to make sure that I didn’t qualify for the Group W bench.
After the questions, the interviewer told me I had passed, and that I should expect a letter in about two weeks inviting me to a naturalization ceremony.
When I first applied, they told me to expect a result by May. They over-performed.
All in all, it was easier and more dignified than my green card interview many years ago. Then, my wife had to accompany me, and we both had to answer the question about whether our marriage had been consummated.
Soooo, you’re saying that you DIDN’T fail the breathalyzer?
KEK.
Good on ya!
I wish my wife would take the next step after her green card, but she’s not comfortable with her english (despite living here 25 years... it’s a japanese thing).... at first it was what if something happens to you.... now it’s the ... but if I wait a few more years the test is easier... sigh....had to respond just because I recognized the group W bench reference ;-)
Thanks for sharing all that! So, becoming a naturalized citizen is doable, right? Good job on the citizenship test!