What is one promise you make when you become a United States citizen?

Why This Matters

When you become a United States citizen, you stand before a judge and take the Oath of Allegiance. This oath includes several promises that you make to your new country. The USCIS interviewer asks this question to make sure you understand what you are agreeing to before that ceremony takes place.

The promises cover several important commitments. You promise to give up loyalty to other countries, which means the United States becomes your primary allegiance. You promise to defend the Constitution and laws of the United States. You promise to obey the laws of the country. You also promise to serve in the U.S. military if needed and to serve the nation by doing important work if called upon. Finally, you promise to be loyal to the United States.

These promises are serious, but they are also what make citizenship meaningful. You are not just receiving benefits, you are entering into an agreement with your new country. Understanding these promises before your interview shows the USCIS officer that you take citizenship seriously and that you are ready for the responsibilities it brings.

Key Facts

• You promise to give up loyalty to other countries
• You promise to defend the Constitution and laws of the United States
• You promise to obey the laws of the United States
• You promise to serve in the U.S. military if needed
• You promise to serve the nation by doing important work if needed
• You promise to be loyal to the United States
• You only need to name one promise to answer correctly

Common Mistakes

• Saying "I promise to vote", voting is a right and responsibility but is not part of the Oath of Allegiance
• Thinking you must join the military, the promise says "if needed," not that you will definitely serve
• Confusing the Oath of Allegiance with the Pledge of Allegiance, they are two different things

Study Tip

Pick the promise that feels most natural to you and practice saying it out loud. For many people, "obey the laws of the United States" is the simplest to remember. Say it as a complete sentence: "I promise to obey the laws of the United States." Having one clear, practiced answer ready will help you feel confident during the interview.