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Naturalization

Naturalization is the process by which U.S. Citizenship is conferred upon a foreign citizen or national after he or she fulfills the requirements established by Congress in the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA).

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) processes all naturalization applications and provides the Court with a list of the candidates selected to be naturalized in the Federal Court.

Currently, the selection consists of only those petitioners who have requested to:

  •    participate in the Naturalization Ceremony and swear the oath of allegiance in a formal court proceeding.
  •    change their names legally and have their new names appear on the Certificate of Naturalization.

USCIS should be contacted directly for procedures on becoming naturalized.  Visit their website, www.uscis.gov, for answers to common questions, copies of forms, and general information about USCIC.  Naturalization ceremonies are held in each of the three seats of courts at least once a month. Special ceremonies may be held at other locations, as well.

Time and Duration

Citizen candidates will receive a Notice of Oath Ceremony from USCIS. It is important to follow all directions on the form including check-in time. Limited seating is available for family members and visitors on a first come/first serve basis. Check in time and Oath Ceremony time can possibly last up to two hours, please keep this in mind when considering to bring small children.

Courthouse Restrictions

Participants and guests attending Naturalization ceremonies at the courthouse must provide photo ID.

Parking

Public parking is NOT available at the courthouses. Several parking garages are located nearby

If You Cannot Attend

Please do NOT contact the United States District Court Clerk’s Office if you cannot attend the ceremony. You must return to the Notice of Naturalization Oath Ceremony (Form N-445) to USCIS. They will then reschedule your Naturalization Ceremony for a later date.