Understanding the Citizenship Test, Prepare for it, don’t fear it!

There are many reasons why people migrate to the United States.  Social economic reasons have always led the chart.  Many immigrants come to the US, and help support their families by sending money on weekly or monthly bases.  Some of them, are quite happy doing this being residents, while keeping in their hearts the wish that after 5 years, they will be able to apply for citizenship and many of them can apply for residency to their loved ones.

It is most important to understand what happens and what to expect during your interview.  The Immigration Officer will ask questions about the applicant.  Most questions come from the application that has been submitted.

Today, I would like to focus on the dreaded “Test” by understanding its importance, it will help us understand what the immigration officer wants to accomplish therefore helping us be more prepared.

What is the naturalization test?

           It is a test, administered by the USCIS, usually starts with an interview where prospective citizens are asked a variety of questions that pertain to their background, most information has already been provided by the application. Once this has been completed, the officer will explain about the tests that will follow the interview.  In reality these tests are used to assess how competent immigrants are in various aspects that will help improve their quality of life and make them appealing to potential employers.

Looking at the English Test…

The English test is made up of three important components.  The written test, which will determine the ability to write in English, the reading test and last but not least the oral and comprehension test.  The reading test, will determine the ability to read and understand English.  In order to pass the written and the reading test, the applicant must be able to write and read aloud a given phrase error free in order to pass.  Whereas, the oral and comprehension test, it is determined by the USCIS officer to determine the applicant’s ability to communicate and understand English.

A view of the Civics Test…

           This aspect of the naturalization test measures your knowledge of U.S. history and government. There are 100 possible questions to choose from, but you'll generally be asked 10. To pass, you need to be right on six of the 10 questions asked.  To ensure your success, preparation for both test is key.  The USCIS has many tools and study resources you can take advantage to help ensure you pass the test and gain all the rights and privileges of being a U.S. citizen.  For more information and to access these tools, visit http://www.uscis.gov/citizenship/learners/study-test

- See more at: http://blog.xoom.com/2012/02/four-things-to-do-to-get-ready-for-the-naturalization-test.html#sthash.WkhqqlFU.dpuf

We at Affordable Legal Papers, are ready to help you initiate the process and help you translating all the documents that are needed to embark on this process. Give us a call at (954-254-5883 or visit our web page http://www.affordablelegalpapers.com/u.s.-citizenship.html 

Coming up next:  What happens if I failed the Naturalization Test??? 

by Dorys Martinez

affordablelegalpapers.com

 

Aventura Professional Translation Services

Citizenship: Exceptions for the English Language Tests...Do I qualify?

A lot of people feel very nervous about the Civics test and the English Language Tests. There are a lot of resources to help you prepare for both tests.  Also, the Department of  Homeland Security has made provisions giving an exemption for those who feel that can not pass the tests.  There are exceptions and modifications to the naturalization requirements that are available to those who qualify. USCIS also provides accommodations for individuals with disabilities.    

For more information visit our A Guide to Naturalization page and the USCIS Policy Manual Citizenship and Naturalization Guidance.  Here at Afforablelegalpapers.com would like to give you some basic information that helps you to determine if you qualify for an exemption of such tests.

English Language Exemptions

You Are Exempt From The English Language Requirement, But Are Still Required To Take The Civics Test If You Are:

• Age 50 or older at the time of filing for naturalization and have lived as a permanent resident (green card holder) in the United States for 20 years   (commonly referred to as the “50/20” exception).
  OR
• Age 55 or older at the time of filing for naturalization and have lived as a permanent resident in the United States for 15 years (commonly referred to as the “55/15” exception).

Note:

• Even if you qualify for the “50/20” or “55/15” English language exceptions listed above, you must still take the civics test. 
• You may be permitted to take the civics test in your native language, but only if your understanding of spoken English is insufficient to conduct a valid examination in English.
• If you take the test in your native language, you must bring an interpreter with you to your interview.
• Your interpreter must be fluent in both English and your native language.
• If you are age 65 or older and have been a permanent resident for at least 20 years at the time of filing for naturalization, you will be given special consideration regarding the civics requirement.

For more information, see the USCIS Policy Manual Citizenship and Naturalization Guidance.

Besides your age, there are other considerations that could get you qualified for an exemption, it is important to review your case with an attorney.  But for now we at the affordablelegalpapers.com

Medical Disability Exceptions to English and Civics

You may be eligible for an exception to the English and civics naturalization requirements if you are unable to comply with these requirements because of a physical or developmental disability or a mental impairment.

To request this exception, submit Form N-648, Medical Certification for Disability Exceptions. This form must be completed by a licensed medical or osteopathic doctor, or licensed clinical psychologist.  

Applying for Citizenship is an important step, and at affordablelegalpapers.com would like you to know that we provide U.S. Citizenship assistance , helping people apply so they can enjoy the security and benefits of United States citizenship and that is our number one priority. One of the ways we do this is by helping permanent residents apply for naturalization. We have vast experience and a great reputation for providing high-quality service to assist you, family, and friends with Translating, filling out all U.S. ImmigrationForms correctly, Notarizing and submitting with all US Government Agencies. 

The Benefits of Citizenship and Naturalization

U.S. citizens have rights that green card holders may not currently be able to enjoy. For example, citizens can vote in elections, hold public office, own firearms, apply for certain government jobs, and more easily help family members immigrate to the United States. U.S. citizens can travel abroad and live in foreign countries without risking the loss of their immigration status or being denied reentry.  Once obtained, citizenship is not something that can be taken away. U.S. citizens cannot be removed from the country or deported.

Submit a Contact Form or Call Us Now 954-254-5883!

For answers to your questions give us a call at (954) 254-5885

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Naturalization Process, what happens next?

Once it has been determined that you may qualify to apply for Citizenship and your forms have been correctly filled out and the fee has been paid to the Government.  One common concern is the Naturalization Test.
     

It is well known that in order to become a naturalized U.S. citizen, you must pass the naturalization test. At your naturalization interview, you will be required to answer questions about your application and background. You will also take an English and Civics test unless you qualify for an exemption or waiver.  We will discuss the exemption later on, since this is a topic on itself. 


What it is important to know is that you are not alone during this process, there is plenty of information and materials to help you develop confidence and knowledge prior to going to your interview. For more information, see USCIS Policy Manual English and Civics Testing Guidance.

Study Materials

USCIS which is the office United States Government Immigration page offers a variety of study materials, including:

• Study Materials for the Civics Test
• Study Materials for the English Test

I am including the links of this vital information to help you find the materials that you need.  Remember, practice with plenty of time is your guarantee for success. 


In future blogs, we will review the exemption waiver, what to expect during your interview as well as what happens if don't pass the test.


Dorys Martinez
www.affordablelegalpapers.com