USCIS Chicago Field Office — Local services in Chicago

Came here for my N400 interview less than a week ago. I got to the building 25 minutes before my appointment and was crestfallen when I saw the how long the line was. I went to the back of the line and started getting nervous that I would miss my appointment. After 5 minutes of internal panic while in line, I started to ask the people in front of me what time their appointments were. Almost all of them had appointments in the afternoon and were just in line super early. So I decided to go towards the front of the line and overheard the guard at the door was turning people away whose appointments were later in the day. After hearing that, I went straight to the front and showed the guard my appointment letter and he swiftly let me in the building.

The staff at this building are excellent, friendly and encouraging. From the security guard at the entrance checking appointment letters, to the guards running the metal detectors (way friendlier than TSA, lol), to the woman running the front desk on the 3rd floor. Every step of the way I was wished with a “good luck” and even complimented me on my ‘fit (from both men and women and never came off as creepy). Their positive attitude was very much appreciated and put me at ease. What kind a kind staff. 10/10

I had a 10AM appointment and checked in about 15 minutes early at the front desk. My officer came out a few minutes before 10 and called my name. She was polite, professional and direct. Not warm and friendly, but not mean or intimidating either. One thing I recommend is to study your N400 application in addition to the civics questions. She saw in my application that both my parents were naturalized. She asked for the date they were naturalized, which took me by surprise. I knew the month and day because it coincides with my nephew’s birthday. I guessed on the year. She didn’t indicate whether or not I answered correctly, she just quickly moved on. (Later, after the interview, I checked and I did answer correctly). The other questions about me and the application were very easy (are you a part of a terrorist organization, have your ever had weapons training, etc.) Then she slid over a piece of paper to me on the desk. She pointed to a checked box saying that I was recommended for approval. Then pointed to another box that said to expect an oath ceremony to be scheduled within 6 weeks. It was over so fast (less than 20 minutes) that I was a little in disbelief and didn’t totally understand what just happened. I asked her if I was approved APPROVED. And she said yes and she congratulated me. At which point I broke out in tears. I thanked her and as she guided me out she was much more friendly and seemed happy for me. She also complimented me on my outfit, lol.

I’ll never forget that feeling of realizing that I would become an American after 32 years. On my way out, I must have been beaming because the staff congratulated me as I was exiting.

Terrific experience overall and everyone I encountered were professional, courteous...

Had a mostly positive experience.

Came 30 minutes before my appointment. In the notice I was asked to be 15 min, but I prefer to come early - worst case is I'll wait outside if they won't let me in.

There were two long lines (about 15 people in each). I made sure I'm in the right line (I think one is for green card while the other is for citizenship 🤷🏻‍♂️) and prepared my notice latter to show the officer/guard at the entrance. I think only a minute pass before I was let in and was directed to a line of security check.

Next at the security check they ask you to empty your pockets and put your belongings on a tray for scan. Note that you will need to take your belt off, and laptops need to be taken out of the bag. You will walk through a metal detector and then you should go to wherever your notice directed you. The security check took about 5 minutes.

Just after the security there are restrooms, escalators and an elevator.

I got to my floor (3rd) and waited in line to sign in. The woman at the desk was very nice and helpful. I waited about 5 minutes until I checked-in, and was directed to wait at a specific waiting area (there are 2).

While waiting, I noticed that many of the people that came with me, and after me, had got in and out. So after 45 minutes I walked back to the woman at the desk and asked if something might happen. Indeed there was some sort of issue with the officer who was supposed to see me, and so I was assigned to a different one and was called in just after 3 minutes.

Did my citizenship test, and interview which took about 35 minutes. The officer was nice and professional, and definitely became more easy going as the interview progressed.

After the appointment the officer will let you know if you passed and will give you information about the pledge of allegiance.

Overall it wasn't a smooth experience, but definitely...

My wife waited 5yrs for her interview for her green card. They canceled her interview due to the weather twice. Then they would contact her saying she did not show up for the interview? When we did finally show up for the interview, we had to take our 3 children. We had no one to watch them. Two out of the 3 children are under the age to be vaccinated. So, we had to wait in line with a bunch of people who may have had covid 19. On top of that it was cold outside. Then we had to put all of our things in the containers that had had other people’s things in them to be checked by security. That could have been used by someone who had covid 19 that we had to put my children’s coats and things in that are not vaccinated. Then we had to go upstairs and wait with several other people again who could have covid 19. And our 2yr old ran to the escalator being curious due to being on the second floor. I was stuck watching all 3 children and my wife’s documents while she went to talk to someone. Not easy to watch 3 little children making sure they are keeping their masks on, and not touching everything. In fact, it’s impossible! It is very dangerous to take your children who are not vaccinated to this place. And for some reason the USCIS has failed to adapt under the circumstances due to Covid 19. They could have given us the interview over the computer instead of being in person. Everything they did in the interview they could have done on the computer. This way no one’s lives would have to be put in danger. This should at least be an option for those who have little children under the age of being able to be vaccinated. USCIS, you need to adapt to the times! I'm not posting this for my family. But for the sake of future families! Especially for...