What to wear to your citizenship interview
Let's settle the worry first: there is no dress code, and no one has ever failed a naturalization interview because of their clothes. The officer is listening to your answers, not judging your outfit. Wear what makes you feel calm and confident — that is the real advice.
The comfortable middle: business casual
Most applicants land on business casual, and it is a good instinct — dressed with care, without a costume. Think:
- A collared shirt, blouse, or sweater with slacks, khakis, or a skirt.
- A simple dress.
- Clean, neat shoes — comfortable ones, since there can be waiting and walking.
- A suit if you feel best in one, but nobody expects it.
Traditional and religious dress
Traditional dress and religious attire — a hijab, turban, kippah, sari, áo dài, anything you wear as a matter of faith or culture — are completely appropriate, at the interview and at the oath ceremony. You are becoming an American citizen; you do not have to look like anyone else to do it.
Better to skip
- Clothing with large slogans or political messages — nothing to gain from it that day.
- Beachwear, gym clothes, or anything you would not wear to a bank appointment.
- Strong perfume or cologne — you will be in a small office, close to the officer.
Practical comfort notes
- Federal buildings run cold — a layer you can add or remove is worth more than a perfect outfit.
- You will pass through security, so simple shoes and minimal metal speed things up.
- Many offices photograph you that day, and some interviews roll straight into a same-day oath ceremony — dress like someone who might be in a picture they will keep forever, because you might be.
Then put clothes out of your mind and spend the evening on what actually decides the day: a practice run of the civics test and the document checklist. Curious what happens once you're in the room? See interview day, minute by minute.
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