The Oath of Allegiance: Pledging Loyalty to the U.S.
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What is the Oath of Allegiance?
A sworn declaration that every applicant for U.S. citizenship must make, promising to be loyal to the United States.
What is the first thing you promise to do in the Oath of Allegiance?
You promise to renounce and abjure all allegiance and fidelity to any foreign prince, potentate, state, or sovereignty of whom you were previously a subject or citizen.
What does it mean to "support and defend the Constitution and laws of the United States"?
It means you promise to obey the supreme law of the land and protect the country from all enemies, both "foreign and domestic."
What does it mean to "bear true faith and allegiance" to the United States?
It means you promise to be completely loyal to the United States and only the United States. Your loyalty to the U.S. is not divided with any other country.
What does it mean to promise to "bear arms on behalf of the United States when required by the law"?
It means you promise to fight in the U.S. Armed Forces if you are called upon to do so by law.
Can someone become a citizen if they are unwilling to "bear arms" due to their beliefs?
Yes, if their objection is based on "deeply held moral or religious principles." They must still be willing to perform other types of service.
What is "noncombatant service" in the U.S. Armed Forces?
Service that does not involve fighting or using a weapon, such as working as a medic, clerk, or in another support role. Applicants must agree to this if required by law.
What is "work of national importance under civilian direction"?
This is service to the country during a time of national emergency, performed as a civilian and not as part of the military. Applicants must agree to this if required by law.
Is taking the Oath of Allegiance optional for becoming a U.S. citizen?
No, it is a mandatory requirement for almost all naturalization applicants.
What is the purpose of renouncing allegiance to your former country?
To show that your primary and sole loyalty is now to the United States.
The Oath requires you to defend the Constitution against which two types of enemies?
All enemies, "foreign and domestic."
Who administers the Oath of Allegiance at a naturalization ceremony?
Typically, a U.S. federal judge or an authorized officer from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
