November 29, 2006

New Citizenship Test Questions Proposed: Pilot Test Winter 2006-2007

Beginning this winter, the Department of Homeland Security will be test piloting a new citizenship test that will center on American ideals rather than on historical facts. Boston and nine other cities will be administering a new exam that will replace fact-based questions such as, “What color are the stars on our flag?” with questions centered more on concepts such as American democracy and freedom.

The specific questions that may be asked on the new tests have not been made public as of this date. While the content will be changing, the format will remain the same. The test will continue to be an oral test conducted in English, will have 10 questions with six correct answers earning a passing grade. Since it is a pilot, participants can elect to retake the regular test, if they should fail the new test. The questions are expected to be based on concepts found in the nation’s founding documents, such as the Bill of Rights and/or Constitution.

Proponents of the new test feel that it will better show an understanding and sharing of American values and ideals and give a better gauge of the level of assimilation or attachment of an immigrant to the United States. Supporters feel that the new test is necessary because citizens should subscribe to a set of shared values. It appears that Canada, the Netherlands, and Australia also are considering similar changes to their tests.

Critics of the new test, such as immigrant advocacy groups, feel that these new types of questions raise the standards to a level unattainable for immigrants. Many immigrants will be unfamiliar with the historical concepts of our founding fathers. They are also wary that this change, occurring at the same time as a proposed review by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for an increase of the $400 citizenship application fees, will have a negative effect on immigrants becoming eligible for citizenship.

Greenberg Traurig will keep you informed as changes become available.