If you’re preparing to become a U.S. citizen, the final stretch of the journey, the N-400 naturalization interview, just became more demanding. Over the past several weeks, applicants across the country have reported a major shift in how interviews are conducted: officers are now asking every single question in Part 9 (“Additional Information About You”) of the Form N-400.
If you’re thinking, “Wait, don’t they already ask those?”, well, yes and no. Historically, USCIS officers exercised discretion and often skipped through sections if answers appeared straightforward. Now, applicants are facing a much more detailed line-by-line review, and it’s catching many by surprise.
As always, Berardi Immigration Law is here to help you understand what’s changing, why it matters, and how to walk into your interview calm, confident, and ready.
Why USCIS Officers Are Asking Every Question
USCIS hasn’t formally published a rule change, but field offices nationwide have begun applying a new internal directive requiring officers to read each question in Part 9 verbatim. This portion of the form covers topics like:
- Arrests, citations, and detentions
- Criminal history
- Immigration violations
- Prior involvement with organizations
- Selective Service registration
- Oaths, allegiances, and affiliations
It’s essentially a deep dive into an applicant’s moral character, compliance with U.S. law, and potential security concerns.
Previously, many officers streamlined this portion unless answers triggered follow-up questions. Now, even the most routine applicant can expect a comprehensive, and sometimes lengthy, review.
What This Means for Naturalization Applicants
To be blunt: the interview will feel longer and more intense. But longer does not mean harder, if you prepare properly.
Here’s what applicants should expect:
- More Time in the Interview Room
Even straightforward cases are taking noticeably longer. Officers must ask each question exactly as written, even if the applicant already answered “No” to related items.
- No Assumptions, No Skipping, No Shortcuts
Officers are no longer glossing over sections that look harmless. That means even questions that seem irrelevant, like whether you’ve ever been involved in vigilante organizations or paramilitary groups, will be read aloud.
- Increased Focus on “Good Moral Character”
This shift signals a broader trend: USCIS is scrutinizing applicants’ eligibility with increasing intensity, especially around public safety, criminal history, and immigration compliance.
- Greater Risk of Delays If You’re Unprepared
Inconsistent answers, nervousness, or confusion can lead to clarifications, requests for evidence, or continuations. Thorough preparation is more important than ever.
Jennifer Behm, Esq., Partner at Berardi Immigration Law, puts it plainly:
“The naturalization interview has always been important, but right now it’s a precision exercise. You can feel the shift. Applicants who know their form inside and out walk in confident, everyone else feels the pressure.”
Breaking Down Part 9: What Officers Are Looking For
Part 9 contains more than 50 questions, many with multiple subparts. It focuses on three key areas:
Criminal History & Legal Violations
These questions cover everything from speeding tickets to arrests, DUIs, probation, or charges that were dismissed. USCIS evaluates whether any incident reflects negatively on your moral character.
Even a minor citation you forgot to disclose can derail your interview; accuracy matters.
Security & Allegiance Questions
Applicants must answer questions about:
- membership in organizations;
- military or weapons training;
- participation in groups hostile to the U.S.;
- support for overthrowing the government; and
- involvement in genocide, persecution, or human rights violations.
The vast majority of applicants breezily answer “No” to everything, but you need to understand each question so you’re confident and consistent.
Immigration-Related Issues
Officers focus on whether you’ve:
- Lied to immigration officials
- Misused visas
- Failed to register for Selective Service (if required)
- Voted unlawfully
- Claimed to be a U.S. citizen
Even innocent mistakes, like registering to vote at the DMV but never voting, can require explanation.
How to Prepare for Your N-400 Interview Under These New Expectations
- Review Your N-400 Line by Line
Know your answers exactly as they appear on the form. If something has changed since you filed, bring updated documentation.
- Understand Each Question, Not Just Your Answer
Some questions can feel confusing or repetitive. Officers expect you to clearly state “Yes” or “No” and avoid oversharing unless asked.
- Gather Evidence for Any “Yes” Answers
If you disclosed:
- Arrests
- Traffic violations
- Prior immigration issues
- Tax concerns
- Selective Service problems
…bring all relevant records, proof of resolution, and legal documentation.
- Practice Saying Answers Out Loud
It sounds simple, but speaking confidently makes a huge difference, especially when officers move through questions quickly.
What Happens If You Answer Incorrectly?
If your answers contradict your form or raise questions, the officer may:
- Pause the interview to clarify issues
- Issue a Request for Evidence
- Continue the case for another day
- In rare cases, issue a Notice of Intent to Deny
This is exactly why preparation matters. A small mistake can look like a big problem if it isn’t clarified immediately.
Be Prepared for Your N-400 Naturalization Interview
Naturalization remains one of the most meaningful steps in the immigration journey. But with officers now required to ask every question in Part 9 of the N-400, applicants should prepare for a more detailed and rigorous interview experience.
The good news? With the right preparation, and the right legal team, you can navigate these changes with confidence.
Berardi Immigration Law is here to guide you through every step, from form preparation to the interview room. When citizenship is on the line, preparation isn’t optional, it’s everything. Book your consultation with our team today.
N-400 Naturalization Interview FAQs
Will this change make my interview harder?
Not necessarily. It will make your interview longer and more detailed, but with proper preparation, the substance remains the same.
What if I forgot to include a ticket, citation, or minor incident?
Bring updated records and disclose it at your interview. USCIS cares more about honesty and consistency than perfection.
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