On January 19, 2017, the Temecula Law Resource Center hosted a Naturalization Information Session presented by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The presenter was Brandon L. Menancio, a USCIS community relations officer. This was our first immigration presentation at the Ronald H. Roberts Temecula Public Library from 5:30pm-7:30pm. We had an amazing turnout of 36 people attend this event. People completed the survey and were so appreciative of the program and looked forward to more events. Mr. Menancio covered the naturalization process, from filling out forms to the interview process and taking the Oath of Allegiance.

During his presentation, Mr. Menancio laid out the general requirements for naturalization. One must be at least 18 years old and have lived in one’s local jurisdiction for 3 months before applying. Additionally, one must show willingness to support and defend the US Constitution as well as to take the Oath of Allegiance. There was also a discussion of the various forms involved in this process. The application is Form N-400, the fee waiver form is I-912, and the fee reduction form is I-942.

Mr. Menancio also explained residency requirements. He mentioned both the continuous residence and physical presence needed for naturalization. Continuous residence rules state that citizenship applicants must maintain a residence in the US for a required period of time. He pointed out that absences of 6 months to 1 year may “stop the clock” on continuous residence, while absences of 1 year stop the clock on naturalization.

He went on to describe the English and Civics test for naturalization, which includes the understanding, reading, and speaking of basic English. It also includes knowledge of US history and government. If a person fails any portion of the test, they can retake the failed portion in 60 days.

He then discussed the interview process. The officer will test you on your English and Civics knowledge as well as review your application. The officer can choose which to do first. If it is found that more information is needed to establish eligibility, the case is continued and a letter is sent to inform the applicant. Lastly, there is the National Oath Ceremony. After taking the Oath of Allegiance the applicant becomes a US Citizen, and a certificate of naturalization is issued as proof of citizenship.

Overall, this presentation highlighted the need for more information on Immigration in the community. We look forward to more presentation in the future by the USCIS community relations officers. Thank you Brandon Menancio for the amazing presentation.