Why Is My Oath Ceremony Taking So Long?
Dealing with the uncertainty of not receiving your USCIS swearing-in notice after a recommended approval for U.S. citizenship.
By Ilona Bray, J.D., University of Washington School of Law
Imagine you went through your naturalization interview months ago. The USCIS officer told you that you passed and would soon get a swearing-in ceremony appointment by mail. Yet, the letter still hasn’t arrived. You’re likely feeling frustrated, especially since you’re eager to become a U.S. citizen, perhaps to petition for your parents’ green card. Why is my oath ceremony taking so long? Let’s dive into what could be causing the delay.
How Long Is the Normal Delay for the Oath Ceremony?
It’s common to experience delays of several weeks or even months between your naturalization interview and the swearing-in ceremony. This happens because USCIS is often underfunded and faces a backlog of cases. However, there are times when delays go beyond the normal processing time.
What Causes These Delays?
Here are some of the most common reasons for long delays:
- FBI Security Check: After your interview, your name needs final clearance from the FBI, especially if you have a common name or share a name with someone who is considered a security threat.
- Scheduling Issues: In some areas, federal courts conduct the oath ceremonies. If your local federal court has a backlogged schedule, it may take longer for your ceremony to be arranged. Alternatively, USCIS conducts some ceremonies in their own offices, which can be faster, but if you requested a name change, it might need to be handled by a federal court, causing more delays.
- Mistakes or Lost Files: Sometimes things go wrong, especially with such a large organization. Your file might have been misplaced, or your swearing-in letter may have been lost in the mail. If you’ve moved since the interview, be sure to update USCIS with your new address.
How to Follow Up About the Delay
Here’s how you can follow up to get your ceremony scheduled:
- Call the USCIS Contact Center: Be ready for a long wait and a voice-automated system. If you don’t reach someone right away, they might arrange for a callback. Once you speak with an officer, they could either help over the phone or schedule an in-person appointment at a USCIS office. When you call, have your green card, naturalization documents, and the letter of recommended approval ready.
- Send a Letter to the USCIS Office: Write to the office that handled your interview. Include your A-number and a copy of the recommendation letter.
- Consult an Attorney: Immigration attorneys are familiar with these delays and know how to inquire about lost files or long waiting times. They can help you understand your options and what to do next.
A Final Note
Remember, you can’t petition for your parents’ green card until you’ve been sworn in as a U.S. citizen and received your citizenship certificate. So, while delays are frustrating, it’s crucial to get through this last step before moving forward with family petitions.