Charleston Welcomes 48 New U.S. Citizens in Ceremony

Key Takeaways

• On May 23, 2025, 48 individuals became U.S. citizens during a Charleston naturalization ceremony.
• Charleston has the longest citizenship processing time in the U.S., averaging 13 months in 2024.
• Upcoming ceremonies in 2025 include June 26 and July 1 at historic Middleton Place.

On May 23, 2025, Charleston marked a major milestone for 48 individuals who became U.S. citizens during a naturalization ceremony held at 11:00 AM in the Ceremonial Courtroom. Judge Omar J. Aboulhosn presided over the event, which was part of a series of ceremonies scheduled throughout the year in Charleston and at historic venues like Middleton Place. This ceremony not only celebrated the personal achievements of the new citizens but also highlighted the ongoing challenges and changes in the naturalization process, especially in Charleston, where applicants face the longest wait times in the country.

What Happened in Charleston: The Ceremony and Its Significance

The naturalization ceremony in Charleston brought together 48 people from different backgrounds, all united by their journey to become U.S. citizens. These individuals took the Oath of Allegiance, the final step in the citizenship process, in front of family, friends, and community members. The event was open to the public, and local schools were encouraged to attend as part of their civics education programs. This approach helps students understand the importance of citizenship and the responsibilities that come with it.

Judge Omar J. Aboulhosn, who led the ceremony, spoke about the meaning of American citizenship and the value of diversity in the community. The ceremony was not just a legal formality; it was a celebration of perseverance, hope, and the promise of a new chapter in the lives of the new citizens.

Why Naturalization Ceremonies Matter

Naturalization ceremonies are more than just official events. They are powerful symbols of inclusion and belonging. For many, the ceremony marks the end of a long and sometimes difficult journey. It is a moment filled with pride, relief, and joy, as new citizens finally gain the rights and responsibilities that come with being part of the United States 🇺🇸.

These ceremonies also serve a broader purpose. They remind the community of the ongoing contributions immigrants make to society. Local officials often highlight these events as milestones that strengthen the community and reinforce the importance of civic participation.

Upcoming Ceremonies and Community Involvement

Charleston has several more ceremonies planned for 2025. The next events will take place on June 26 and July 1 at Middleton Place, a site known for its historical significance. Another ceremony is scheduled for September 19 at the federal courthouse. Middleton Place, in particular, has become a special location for these ceremonies, emphasizing the connection between history and the ongoing story of American immigration.

Community involvement is a key part of these events. Schools, local organizations, and advocacy groups are encouraged to participate, making the ceremonies educational and meaningful for everyone involved.

The Naturalization Process: Step by Step

Becoming a U.S. citizen is a multi-step process that can take several months or even years, depending on where you live. Here’s a simple breakdown of the steps involved:

1. Application Submission: The first step is to file Form N-400, Application for Naturalization with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This form asks for personal information, background details, and proof of eligibility.
2. Biometrics Appointment: After submitting the application, most applicants must attend a fingerprinting appointment. This helps USCIS check your background.
3. Interview and Civics Test: Next, you’ll be scheduled for an interview with a USCIS officer. During the interview, you’ll answer questions about your application and take an English and civics test. The civics test covers basic facts about U.S. history and government.
4. Oath Ceremony Scheduling: If you pass the interview and tests, you’ll receive Form N-445, Notice of Naturalization Oath Ceremony, which tells you when and where your ceremony will take place.
5. Ceremony Check-In: On the day of the ceremony, you’ll check in with USCIS officials and return your Permanent Resident Card (green card).
6. Oath of Allegiance: You’ll take the Oath of Allegiance, promising to support and defend the Constitution and laws of the United States 🇺🇸.
   7. Certificate of Naturalization: After the oath, you’ll receive your Certificate of Naturalization. It’s important to check this document for any mistakes before leaving the ceremony.
7. Update Social Security Record: Within about 10 days after the ceremony, you should update your status with the Social Security Administration by submitting Form SS-5.

For more details on the process, visit the official USCIS citizenship page.

Processing Times: Why Charleston Stands Out

While the naturalization process is the same across the country, the time it takes to become a U.S. citizen can vary a lot depending on where you live. As of May 2024, Charleston had the slowest average processing time for citizenship applications in the United States 🇺🇸, with applicants waiting about 13 months from the time they applied to the day of their ceremony. This is much longer than the national average of 5 months.

This long wait in Charleston is due to several factors:

• Resource Allocation: Some areas have fewer staff or resources to handle applications.
• Local Demand: Charleston has seen a high number of applications, which can slow things down.
• Backlogs: The COVID-19 pandemic caused delays in 2020–2022, and while the national backlog has dropped by 44% since its peak in 2020, some cities like Charleston are still catching up.

According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, these delays can have real impacts on people’s lives. Long waits can affect family reunification, job opportunities, and the ability to participate fully in civic life, such as voting in elections.

The Impact of Delays on New Citizens

For many immigrants, becoming a U.S. citizen is a dream that takes years to achieve. Delays in the process can be frustrating and stressful. Here’s how longer wait times in Charleston affect different groups:

• Families: Some applicants want to become citizens so they can sponsor relatives to come to the United States 🇺🇸. Delays mean longer separations from loved ones.
• Workers: Citizenship can open up new job opportunities, especially in government or jobs that require security clearance. Waiting longer can put these opportunities on hold.
• Voters: New citizens gain the right to vote. Delays can mean missing important elections and the chance to have a say in local and national decisions.

Advocacy groups continue to call for more resources and fairer processing times, especially in high-demand areas like Charleston.

What Happens After the Ceremony?

Once you become a U.S. citizen, you gain several important rights and benefits:

• Right to Vote: You can register and vote in federal, state, and local elections.
• U.S. Passport: You can apply for a U.S. passport, making international travel easier.
• Sponsoring Relatives: You can sponsor certain family members to immigrate to the United States 🇺🇸.
• Government Jobs: Some jobs are only open to U.S. citizens.
• Civic Participation: You can run for public office and serve on juries.

It’s important to update your records with the Social Security Administration and other agencies to reflect your new status.

The Role of Federal Courts and USCIS

Naturalization ceremonies are usually organized by federal courts or USCIS. In Charleston, the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals helps schedule and publicize ceremony dates. Middleton Place, a historic site, also hosts annual and special ceremonies, adding a sense of tradition and history to the event.

USCIS is responsible for reviewing applications, conducting interviews, and making sure all requirements are met. They also provide information and resources for applicants and new citizens. For the latest updates on ceremonies and application status, always check the USCIS website.

Historical Background: How Naturalization Has Changed

The process of becoming a U.S. citizen is governed by the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). Over the years, the requirements have included:

• Lawful Permanent Residency: You must have a green card and live in the United States 🇺🇸 for a certain number of years.
• Good Moral Character: You must show you have followed the law and been a good member of your community.
• English and Civics Knowledge: You must be able to read, write, and speak basic English and understand U.S. history and government.

The COVID-19 pandemic caused major delays in the naturalization process. Ceremonies and interviews were postponed, and backlogs grew. While the national backlog has improved, some cities like Charleston are still working through the effects of those delays.

Multiple Perspectives: Voices from the Ceremony

New Citizens

Many new citizens in Charleston expressed pride and relief at finally reaching this milestone. For some, the journey took years and involved many challenges. They celebrated with family and friends, sharing stories of perseverance and hope.

Local Officials

Officials in Charleston see these ceremonies as important moments for the whole community. They highlight the value of diversity and the contributions immigrants make to the city and the country.

Advocacy Groups

Groups that support immigrants continue to push for more resources and fairer processing times. They argue that everyone should have an equal chance to become a citizen, no matter where they live.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Charleston and New Citizens

Charleston has more ceremonies planned for the coming months, including events at Middleton Place and the federal courthouse. While national processing times are improving, Charleston’s long wait times may continue unless more resources are provided.

Advocacy for uniform processing times and more ceremony locations is expected to continue. This could help make the process fairer and faster for everyone.

Practical Tips for Applicants and New Citizens

• Check Ceremony Dates: Always confirm the date and location of your ceremony with the local federal court or USCIS.
• Prepare Documents: Bring all required documents to your ceremony, including your green card and the notice you received.
• Review Your Certificate: Make sure your Certificate of Naturalization is correct before leaving the ceremony.
• Update Records: Don’t forget to update your status with the Social Security Administration and other agencies.

Key Ceremony Details at a Glance

Where to Find More Information

• USCIS: www.uscis.gov for application status, ceremony information, and citizenship resources
• Charleston Federal Court Clerk’s Office: Contact to confirm ceremony dates and details
• Middleton Place: Call (843) 556-6020 for event information
• Social Security Administration: www.ssa.gov for updating citizenship status after your ceremony

Final Thoughts

The Charleston naturalization ceremony on May 23, 2025, was a proud moment for 48 new U.S. citizens and their families. While the journey to citizenship can be long—especially in Charleston, where wait times are the longest in the country—the ceremony marks the beginning of a new chapter filled with rights, responsibilities, and opportunities.

If you are applying for citizenship or supporting someone who is, stay informed, prepare carefully, and reach out to official sources for help. The path to becoming a U.S. citizen may have its challenges, but the rewards are life-changing for individuals, families, and the entire community.

Learn Today

Naturalization Ceremony → A formal event where applicants take the Oath of Allegiance to become U.S. citizens.
Oath of Allegiance → A pledge to support and defend the U.S. Constitution and laws.
Form N-400 → The official USCIS application form to begin the naturalization process.
Certificate of Naturalization → A legal document certifying a person’s status as a U.S. citizen.
USCIS → U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, the agency overseeing immigration and naturalization.

This Article in a Nutshell

Charleston celebrated 48 new U.S. citizens on May 23, 2025, amid the nation’s longest processing delays. The ceremony at the federal courthouse, led by Judge Aboulhosn, highlighted citizenship’s significance and community diversity. Future ceremonies at Middleton Place offer both historic context and hope for faster naturalization processes ahead.
— By VisaVerge.com