The director stated that the brand new course of could contain a standardized take a look at and essay-like responses to check candidates’ data and English language expertise.
WASHINGTON—The director of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Providers, on Sept. 4, introduced that his company can be growing the issue of the present take a look at for immigrants to be naturalized as residents of the USA.
Director Joseph B. Edlow made the announcement at an occasion hosted by the Heart for Immigration Research, a bunch that seeks to decrease the admissions of immigrants to the USA. He stated that the present take a look at—which requires candidates to exhibit the power to learn and write in English, in addition to appropriately reply six out of 10 questions associated to the federal government, historical past, and civics—would get replaced by a brand new take a look at that entails extra parts, together with essay responses.
“We’re looking for an attachment to the Constitution. We’re looking for an understanding of the civic responsibility of being a U.S. citizen. We’re looking for actual understanding and ability to read and speak and write the English language,” Edlow stated. “Frankly, this test is just too easy … we need to make it a little more challenging … That’s what we’re going to do.”
“We’re going to make the test harder in terms of making the questions more thought-provoking,” Edlow stated. “I might even consider, if possible, moving to a standardized test format … and [having applicants] write an essay on ‘What does it mean to me to be an American?’” he additionally famous, including that “being able to be coached through this process right now is not something that should be allowed.”
“Naturalization” is the method of a international nationwide changing into a U.S. citizen, often after changing into a Lawful Everlasting Resident, similar to by possessing a “green card,” and spending between three and 5 years on such a standing. It’s one in all 3 ways to grow to be a U.S. citizen, the opposite two being “derivation” by a minor baby when their custodial mother and father naturalize, in addition to start as a natural-born U.S. citizen both within the nation or, topic to guidelines, overseas to an American dad or mum.
The naturalization take a look at is one element of the method of naturalization, the opposite being the requirement to swear an oath of allegiance to the Structure and legal guidelines and pledge sure guarantees, similar to to bear arms on behalf of the USA. An applicant who fails any element of the naturalization take a look at is eligible to retake it a second time, inside a 60- to 90-day interval. In the event that they fail a second time, their utility for naturalization is denied, they forfeit any charges, and they’re required to reapply from the start of the method.
Edlow stated that the didn’t wish to make the take a look at “so hard that it’s impossible,” however famous that the questions must be modified.
“I am declaring war on anyone that is coming to this country and wants to get a benefit, but doesn’t want the responsibility of what it means to actually be a U.S. citizen,” Edlow famous.
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