Interview experience at Mt. Laurel

[Mohsin 0]

Before I begin let me just say that I was not happy with my case going to the Mt. Laurel office instead of the Newark Office, but now let me tell you it’s way better than Newark, NJ. Less hassle getting there, less crowded and the people are wayyyy nicer.

Now that that’s out of the way, my interview was at 10:45am today. I got to the USCIS office at Mt. Laurel around 10:30am and parked at the free parking within their premises less than 50ft from the main entrance door (another benefit of the Mt. Laurel office). After the security check I gave my appointment letter to the smiling receptionist (a rarity at USCIS) and before my butt even warmed the seat, my name was called out by an IO and I followed him into the back offices.

After the usual oath I was asked to present my passport, green card and driver’s license. I explained that I had gone for an interview to remove conditions in June and though I was approved I have not received the GC yet. He confirmed from my file that I was approved (a relief) and then told me that not having the GC won’t be blocking this case since they had not even produced the card yet (a great relief).

He then asked me a question I was actually not prepared for “What does taking the oath of citizenship mean?” I hesitated and said, “Be loyal to the USA and abide by all laws.” He said “And you will renounce all other loyalties, your loyalty to USA will come first, you will bear arms if needed.” Somehow I didn’t know they asked this question but in any case it wasn’t part of the test.

I was then made to sign the last portion of the N-400 application which you’re only to sign in front of an IO. He then made me sign the photographs I sent with my application (I had not taken extra photos as people usually do). Then we moved on to the test…all 6 questions were good….then English part came later which went well also.

Overall a good experience…and even though Mt. Laurel does same day oaths I am not eligible until I complete the three year Permanent residency on Sep 6^th. He said I will receive the oath appointment by mail and that there’s a big oath ceremony on Sep 26^th in Trenton and that I should get that (fingers crossed). He said otherwise my application is approved.

So it is highly possible my dealings with USCIS will come to an end very soon at least for myself personally. But I can only be sure once I have that certificate in my hand. For everyone waiting good luck…

[wannabe_texan 0]

How awesome!!! Congratulations :dance:

[wannabe_texan 0]

Just adding that its great the Oath won't be too far away. I know we (the June filers) were wondering what would happen if you were approved before the 3 years of PR, so now we know!! Anyway, hope you are resting for the balance of the day, and just one more 'waiting for the mail to come' time for the OL and then you'll be done

[Kathryn41 3,205]

Congratulations! I was also asked the questions about observing the law, forsaking other countries, bearing arms if necessary, serving in a civilian capacity if necessary, etc. The question that surprised me was if I had any title of royalty or nobility in another country. That one was unexpected.

Regardless, congratulations and enjoy your ceremony.

Edited September 2, 2009 by Kathryn41

[NickD 203]

Holy something or another, three years with the USCIS MEANS three years, you are just four days short of that. Couldn't they just post dated your certificate to the 6th and tell you not to send it off to the DOS until then?

Oh well, now you will have all the excitement and boredom of an oath ceremony, how many thousands will be there in Trenton? Wife had problems with bearing arms for this country, scared to death from those things that go bang bang. But my army neighbor captain and I assured her, if they do call her, we will really really be in bad shape. Wasn't any problem for her to renounce Venezuela.

[CanAmCharlotte 0]

Great news! Sounds like your interview experience was a very good one indeed. Time to celebrate the end of this long, arduous journey. I have a month to go before my interview and I'm like a prisoner marking the days off on my cell wall! I can't wait to end this bloody process. I'm wondering if I'm going to feel any different. My sister asked me the other day what I will worry about when this is all over. Gee, I guess I'll think of something...lol!

[Sand 5]

Congratulations

[-B&T- 1]

Congratulations!

[PrinceandPrincess 0]

Congratulations!

[ddartt1 2]

Congratulations!

[road2kros 0]

Congratulations and thanks for sharing your experience.

[lidcomg 0]

Hello All,

Question 1 - Do I need to bring my spouse for N-400 interview ( based on 3 years marriage rule )

Queston 2 - Also can some one confirm 3 years rule with US citizen wife applies from the day we receive Conditional Green Card or after 3 years of receiving permenet GC

Question 3. My Condition on GC was removed on July 6, but I lost card in mail. I think I can apply N-400 on ( Aug 1 , based ) based on 3 years - 90 day rule but I dont have GC ( since i lost in mail, never recieved ) - I applied for replacement of GC by I-90 but I am still waiting. Can I apply N-400 without having physical card even though my GC is approved.

thank you