Last Updated on February 23, 2023
Key Points
- USCIS plans to implement an amended naturalization civics test
- The civics test is required for most individuals seeking U.S. citizenship
- The new naturalization civics test will be implemented on December 1, 2020
Overview
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) plans to implement a revised naturalization civics test. The civics test is required for most individuals applying for U.S. citizenship.
What are the Changes?
The updated test will add more questions to test applicants’ knowledge of U.S. civics and history. Along with changes to the naturalization test itself, the test preparation process will be updated to provide applicants with more resources to learn more about the United States.
Who is Affected?
The naturalization test is a statutory requirement for U.S. citizenship. However, special considerations apply for lawful permanent residents who are age 65 or older and have been in the U.S. for at least 20 years.
What Should Applicants Know?
Applicants must achieve a score of 60% to pass the test, which means they must answer 12 out of 20 questions correctly. This is a change from the previous test, which required applicants to answer six out of 10 questions correctly.
Looking Ahead
The new naturalization test applies to applications for U.S. citizenship submitted on or after December 1, 2020. Applications submitted for U.S. citizenship before then will be subject to the current test.
Envoy is pleased to provide you this information, which was prepared in collaboration with Sara Herbek, who is the Managing Partner at Global Immigration Associates, P.C. (www.giafirm.com), Envoy’s affiliated law firm.
Content in this publication is not intended as legal advice, nor should it be relied on as such. For additional information on the issues discussed, consult an Envoy-affiliated attorney or another qualified professional.
