Naturalization Frequently Asked Questions

Naturalization Ceremonies

The U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Indiana typically holds two Naturalization ceremonies per month.  Ceremonies may be held at the Birch Bayh Federal Building and United States Courthouse(located at 46 East Ohio Street, Indianapolis, IN 46204), at the Indiana War Memorial (located at 55 East Michigan Street, Indianapolis, IN 46204), or at other locations.

It is important to note that the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) holds many additional Naturalization ceremonies that do not involve the Court.  If you have a question about your ceremony, please visit the local USCIS office, located at 1099 North Meridian Street, Indianapolis, Indiana 46204, or visit the USCIS Contact Center website at: www.uscis.gov/contactcenter.    

Time and Duration

The USCIS mails citizen candidates a form “N-445, Notice of Naturalization Oath Ceremony” informing them of the details regarding their scheduled ceremony. It is important to follow all directions on the form including arrival time.  Limited seating is available for family members and visitors on a first come/first serve basis.  Check-in time and Oath Ceremony time can possibly last up to two hours, please keep this in mind when considering bringing small children.

Courthouse Restrictions

Participants and guests attending Naturalization ceremonies at the federal courthouse must provide a valid photo ID and are prohibited from bringing liquids or beverages into the building. Learn more about Courthouse Restrictions.

Parking

Public parking is NOT available at the United States Courthouse or at the Indiana War Memorial. Several parking garages are located nearby. Parking meters are available within walking distance, with a 3-hour time limit (please check the meter instructions. Parking before 9:00 A.M. is not allowed at some meters). Check Maps, Directions, & Travel Resources for more information.

Handicapped-Accessible Entrance

Located on the northeast corner of the United States Courthouse, at Pennsylvania and New York Streets.

If You Cannot Attend

Please do NOT contact the United States District Court if you cannot attend the ceremony. You must return the N-445 Notice of Naturalization Oath Ceremony  to the USCIS, Indianapolis Field Division, 1099 North Meridian Street, Indianapolis, Indiana 46204, with a letter explaining the need to cancel. USCIS will then reschedule your Naturalization ceremony for a later date.  If you have questions, please visit the local USCIS field office, located at 1099 North Meridian Street, Indianapolis, Indiana 46204, or visit the USCIS Contact Center website at: www.uscis.gov/contactcenter.