A Cuban woman in the United States, known on social media as @yanimg30, has taken to TikTok to share insights into her journey to becoming a U.S. citizen. Through two videos on her profile, she detailed the nature of her interview, the questions asked, and offered advice for those following the same path.
Her process, as she described, spanned exactly eight months from the application submission to achieving naturalization. During the interview, the immigration officer posed between 16 and 18 personal questions, covering topics like her family, work history, and immigration status. "The officer focused a lot on my life, even asking about my husband's life," she noted.
Additionally, the test included reading and writing evaluations in English, along with civic questions. "I spent nights memorizing the names of presidents, representatives, senators, and governors, but none of those were on my test," she recalled.
One striking aspect for her was that the officer did not congratulate her upon informing her of her successful exam results. "I'm still waiting for her congratulations," she joked in her video.
Her story has elicited thousands of reactions on TikTok, with many users sharing their own naturalization experiences. Some commented on their nervousness, while others inquired about wait times and costs. "I cried when they told me I passed too," one user shared.
Other followers sought advice on study methods for the exam. Yani recommended the course "Studying with Fernando," which has been a popular resource among immigrants preparing for U.S. citizenship.
Just days before detailing her interview experience, @yanimg30 excitedly celebrated her citizenship on TikTok, posting a video holding her naturalization certificate and waving a small U.S. flag. "It was on my vision board since last year, and today it came true," she expressed in the clip, showcasing her joy at reaching this significant milestone.
The story of @yanimg30 is not unique in grabbing attention on social media. Recently, another Cuban woman shared her citizenship journey on TikTok, revealing how she achieved it quickly despite not fully mastering English. Her account also emphasized the importance of studying with the right materials and preparing for personal questions.
The naturalization process in the U.S. varies depending on each applicant's case and the office where the interview occurs. Currently, the application fee for citizenship stands at $710, and wait times can range from several months to over a year.
Stories like @yanimg30's highlight the dedication and effort of many Cuban immigrants aiming to secure U.S. citizenship, a crucial step in ensuring their permanence and rights in the country. Her experience has resonated with many immigrants preparing for this process, serving as a source of inspiration and guidance for those about to face the exam. "Don't let fear be the reason you don't become a citizen," she advised in one of her comments.
Her testimony underscores the importance of preparation and understanding the process, emphasizing that while nerves are unavoidable, with study and confidence, achieving U.S. citizenship is within reach.
Key Information on U.S. Citizenship Process for Cuban Immigrants
How long does the U.S. citizenship process take?
The naturalization process can vary, but it generally takes from several months to over a year, depending on the applicant's case and the local office handling the application.
What is the cost of applying for U.S. citizenship?
As of now, the application fee for U.S. citizenship is $710.
What kind of questions are asked during the citizenship interview?
The interview typically includes personal questions about the applicant's family, work history, and immigration status, as well as a reading and writing test in English and questions on U.S. civics.