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The Oath of Allegiance: What to Expect on Naturalization Day

Naturalization Day marks a significant milestone in your journey to becoming a U.S. citizen, culminating in the Oath of Allegiance ceremony. This guide will prepare you for what to expect on this important day, including essential steps to take afterward, and how to find an experienced attorney near you for any questions or concerns about the process.

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The Oath of Allegiance: What to Expect on Naturalization Day
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Naturalization Day marks a significant milestone in your journey to becoming a U.S. citizen, culminating in the Oath of Allegiance ceremony. This guide will prepare you for what to expect on this important day, including essential steps to take afterward, and how to find an experienced attorney near you for any questions or concerns about the process.
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Discover what to expect on Naturalization Day as you take the Oath of Allegiance and become a U.S. citizen. This comprehensive guide covers the ceremony process, important preparations, and next steps, including how to connect with an experienced attorney near you for any immigration questions.
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Flat vector illustration of a U.S. naturalization ceremony. A diverse group of new citizens stands together, raising their right hands while taking the Oath of Allegiance. A USCIS officer or judge leads the ceremony, with an American flag in the background. The scene represents the final step in the U.S. citizenship process.
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The Oath of Allegiance: What to Expect on Naturalization Day

Naturalization Day is the final step in the journey to becoming a U.S. citizen. After months—or even years—of preparing, applying, and interviewing, you will finally complete the process by taking the Oath of Allegiance. This ceremony is a formal event where you pledge your loyalty to the United States and receive your Certificate of Naturalization.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
  • What the Oath of Allegiance is and why it matters
  • What happens at the naturalization ceremony
  • How to prepare for the event
  • What to do after receiving your naturalization certificate
Understanding what to expect on Naturalization Day will help you feel confident and ready to celebrate your new status as a U.S. citizen.
 
💡 For every post in this series, scroll down to “Related Posts.”

What Is the Oath of Allegiance?

The Oath of Allegiance is a sworn statement that new citizens must recite during their naturalization ceremony. By taking this oath, you:
  • Renounce allegiance to other countries.
  • Pledge to support and defend the U.S. Constitution and laws.
  • Promise to serve the country when required (military or civilian service).
This oath marks the official moment when you become a naturalized U.S. citizen.

Before the Ceremony: Receiving Your Naturalization Ceremony Notice

1. Form N-445: Notice of Naturalization Oath Ceremony

Once your citizenship application is approved, USCIS will send you Form N-445, Notice of Naturalization Oath Ceremony. This notice includes:
  • The date, time, and location of your ceremony.
  • A list of documents to bring.
  • Instructions on what to do before attending.

2. Reviewing Your Form N-445

Before attending, you must:
  • Complete the questionnaire on the back of Form N-445.
  • Answer questions about any changes in your status since your interview (e.g., travel, arrests, or name changes).
  • If something has changed that may affect your eligibility, consult an immigration attorney before the ceremony.

What to Expect at the Naturalization Ceremony

On the day of your naturalization ceremony, you will go through a structured process:

1. Check-In and Document Review

  • Arrive at the designated USCIS field office or courthouse early.
  • Check in with USCIS officials and submit Form N-445.
  • Surrender your green card, as you will no longer need it.
  • Receive a U.S. flag, welcome packet, and a copy of the Oath of Allegiance.

2. The Ceremony Begins

Once everyone is seated, the ceremony starts with:
  • A welcome speech from a USCIS official or judge.
  • A video or remarks from the President of the United States.

3. Taking the Oath of Allegiance

The most important part of the ceremony is reciting the Oath of Allegiance. Everyone will stand, raise their right hand, and repeat the oath together.

Full Text of the Oath of Allegiance:

"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, of whom or which I have heretofore been a subject or citizen; that I will 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; that I will bear arms on behalf of the United States when required by the law; that I will perform noncombatant service in the Armed Forces of the United States when required by the law; that I will perform work of national importance under civilian direction when required by the law; and that I take this obligation freely, without any mental reservation or purpose of evasion; so help me God."

4. Receiving Your Certificate of Naturalization

After taking the oath, you will:
  • Be called one by one to receive your Certificate of Naturalization.
  • Check for any errors on the certificate before leaving.
  • Celebrate! You are now officially a U.S. citizen.

After the Ceremony: What to Do Next

1. Apply for a U.S. Passport

Your Certificate of Naturalization is proof of citizenship, but you will need a U.S. passport for international travel.
  • Apply through the U.S. Department of State.
  • Your naturalization certificate will be submitted with your passport application (and returned to you).

2. Update Your Social Security Record

Visit a Social Security Administration (SSA) office to update your status as a U.S. citizen. This will help with benefits, taxes, and identification.

3. Register to Vote

Many naturalization ceremonies offer voter registration booths on-site. If not, register through your state election office.

4. Update Your Driver’s License or State ID

Visit your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to update your records. Some states allow you to change your ID to reflect your new citizenship status.

5. Consider Sponsoring Family Members

As a U.S. citizen, you can now sponsor spouses, children, parents, and siblings for green cards through family-based immigration.

6. Learn Your Rights and Responsibilities as a Citizen

As a U.S. citizen, you now have:
  • The right to vote in elections.
  • The responsibility to serve on a jury if called.
  • The ability to apply for federal jobs that require U.S. citizenship.
  • The opportunity to run for public office (except for President or Vice President).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Reschedule My Naturalization Ceremony?

Yes, but you must request a new date in writing and provide a valid reason. Excessive delays may require you to repeat the interview process.

Do I Have to Take the Oath in Public?

Most ceremonies are public events, but in special cases, USCIS may allow a private ceremony (e.g., for medical reasons).

Can I Change the Oath of Allegiance?

You may request modifications if:
  • You have religious objections to the phrase "so help me God."
  • You are opposed to bearing arms for military service (a waiver is required).

What Should I Wear to the Ceremony?

Dress in business casual or formal attire as a sign of respect for the occasion.

What If There’s an Error on My Naturalization Certificate?

Report the error immediately to USCIS to request a correction.

Conclusion

Taking the Oath of Allegiance is the final and most meaningful step in the naturalization process. It’s a day of celebration and recognition, marking your official transition to U.S. citizenship.
To ensure a smooth process:
  • Review your Form N-445 and complete the required questionnaire.
  • Bring all necessary documents and arrive early.
  • Check your naturalization certificate for errors before leaving.
  • Apply for a passport and update your records after the ceremony.
If you have concerns about your eligibility or the naturalization process, ReferU.AI can connect you with experienced immigration attorneys near you. Start your journey to U.S. citizenship with confidence!

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