Can You Bring an Interpreter to Your USCIS Naturalization Interview

Whether you can bring an interpreter to your USCIS naturalization interview depends entirely on whether you are exempt from the English language requirement. Most applicants are not exempt and must conduct the interview in English. However, applicants who qualify for an age-based or disability-based English exemption may bring an interpreter for the portions of the interview that are not the English test itself.

The English Requirement and Who Is Exempt

The naturalization process requires applicants to demonstrate the ability to read, write, and speak basic English. The interview itself is largely conducted in English. If you are not exempt from this requirement, you cannot bring an interpreter to help you communicate with the officer during the interview, and doing so would not be permitted.

Two age-based exemptions allow applicants to take the civics test in their native language through an interpreter. The 50/20 exemption covers applicants who are 50 years of age or older and have been permanent residents for at least 20 years. The 55/15 exemption covers applicants who are 55 or older and have been permanent residents for at least 15 years. Both exemptions waive the English requirement entirely.

A disability-based exemption is available through Form N-648 (Medical Certification for Disability Exceptions). A licensed medical professional must complete the form and certify that a physical or developmental disability or mental impairment prevents you from meeting the English and civics requirements.

Rules for Interpreters

If you are exempt from the English requirement and plan to use an interpreter, your interpreter must meet specific USCIS requirements.

• Fluency in both languages. Your interpreter must be fluent in English and in your native language. The officer may ask the interpreter basic questions to verify fluency.
• Must not be your attorney of record. If you have an attorney at the interview, that attorney cannot also serve as your interpreter. A separate person must fulfill the interpreter role.
• Must be at least 18 years old. Minors cannot serve as interpreters at USCIS interviews.
• Must swear an oath. At the start of the interview, the officer will administer an oath to your interpreter, requiring them to interpret accurately and truthfully.
• Cannot coach or prompt you. The interpreter's role is only to translate the officer's questions and your answers. If the interpreter attempts to provide answers, suggest responses, or otherwise assist you in answering, the officer can end the interview.

What the Interpreter Translates

If you are exempt from the English requirement, the interpreter assists with the civics questions and the N-400 review portion of the interview, where the officer asks about information you provided on your application. The interpreter does not translate during the English reading and writing test, because if you are exempt from English, those tests are waived entirely.

USCIS Phone Interpreter as an Alternative

Some USCIS field offices offer a telephone interpreter service for applicants who are exempt from English but cannot find an in-person interpreter. Availability varies by office and language. Contact your local USCIS field office before your interview to ask whether this service is available and how to request it.

Notifying USCIS That You Will Bring an Interpreter

USCIS does not require advance notice that you plan to bring an interpreter. You simply arrive at your interview with your interpreter. However, if your appointment notice includes specific instructions about interpreters, follow those instructions.

Your interpreter does not need any special paperwork to attend the interview. They should bring a valid photo ID and be prepared to swear the interpreter's oath before the interview begins.