When going through the naturalization process to obtain citizenship in the United States, you are required to attend a naturalization interview. But if you have missed your naturalization interview, there are options available to help you correct this. And it’s very important that you follow the correct steps when rescheduling; otherwise, you risk running into delays or having your application rejected. Keep reading to find out the consequences of missing a naturalization interview and how you can correct this mistake.
Why Naturalization Interviews Matter
The naturalization interview is one of the last steps in the N-400 process, which is why it can often be underestimated. However, this interview isn’t optional and is one of the main deciding factors in whether or not you are approved for naturalization.
During the interview, you will need to perform a civics and english test, which helps to determine your eligibility. Also, a USCIS officer will perform an interview with a series of questions to understand why you are going through the naturalization process. This interview also helps to make sure your answers lineup with the information on your N-400 application, establishing credibility.
What Happens If You Miss the Interview
Life happens, and sometimes you can’t make it to important appointments no matter how hard you try. However, if this is the case, it’s crucial that you respond accordingly and let the USCIS know so that you can begin the N-400 rescheduling process.
If you do not show up for your interview and don’t provide a reason why, the USCIS could automatically reject your application. And even if your case isn’t automatically closed, this could lead to extensive scrutiny from the USCIS, causing naturalization delays.
It is best to reach out to the USCIS as soon as you know you will not be able to attend your appointment. They will usually work with you to find a new date within 90 days.
How to Reschedule Properly
To reschedule your N-400 interview, there are two methods most commonly used: contacting the USCIS directly by phone or writing to the correct USCIS office. Also, you can check your naturalization interview notice, as it may provide different information regarding how you should contact the USCIS to reschedule.
No matter what option you choose, you will need to provide an explanation of why you missed your naturalization interview. Keep in mind that you must have good cause for having missed your interview, such as circumstances beyond your control.
Some examples of good reasons for missing your interview that the USCIS will usually accept include:
- Being sick
- Being hospitalized unexpectedly
- Family emergencies
- A death in the family
- Failure to receive notice
Depending on your reason for needing to reschedule, you may need to be prepared to provide proof such as a doctor’s note, medical test results, change of address, etc. You should also hold onto your rescheduling information in case an issue comes up later on.
Consequences of Multiple Missed Appointments
In most cases, the USCIS won’t reschedule multiple naturalization interviews unless the circumstances are very unusual. For the most part, each applicant only has the opportunity to reschedule once before their case is closed. And once this happens, you will need to start the application process all over again, including paying all of the necessary application fees.
If you are struggling to make it to your naturalization interview, you should get the help of an immigration attorney. An attorney can help you reschedule your appointment and prepare beforehand so that you have the best possible chance of passing. And if you have already missed one or two appointments, your attorney can help you look into alternative options.
How to Avoid Missing Your Naturalization Interview
Attending your naturalization interview is one of the more straightforward steps when obtaining citizenship. However, like any other step in the immigration process, it’s always best to have a strategy that improves your chances of success.
Here are some actionable steps you can take to prepare for your interview beforehand so that you are less likely to have to reschedule at the last minute:
- Study ahead of time: To make sure you are prepared for your naturalization interview, you should start studying once you receive your notice. This will give you plenty of time to prepare without making you feel rushed.
- Prepare your family: If you have children, you should get your family prepared for the day that you will be gone for your interview. Lineup childcare or make sure your spouse is available in case your children need something or a minor emergency comes up.
- Find transportation: Not having transportation isn’t a valid reason for needing to reschedule your naturalization interview. So, you need to plan ahead and have a transportation option already prepared, whether that be using your own vehicle, renting a vehicle, having someone drive you, or taking public transportation.
Hire an Immigration Attorney Today
Even if you have missed your naturalization interview, there are still options available to help you fix this mistake and get the naturalization process back on track. Contact us today at U.S. Immigration Law Counsel at 800-666-4996 to speak with an immigration attorney about your situation. We will deal with the government, so you don’t have to!
FAQ Section
Will the USCIS deny my citizenship if I miss one interview?
Not usually. But you need to act quickly and reschedule to show that you still have every intention of moving forward with the naturalization process. You also need to make sure you are able to attend your rescheduled interview; otherwise, you risk having your application denied.
What if I never received the interview notice?
If you haven’t received your interview notice within eight months of filing form N-400, you need to reach out to the USCIS directly. The USCIS can provide you with a case status update that shows whether or not the notice has been sent.
Can I travel after missing my interview?
Although not prohibited, traveling while your case is pending rescheduling can be risky and could potentially make it difficult for you to attend your rescheduled interview.
