Question details
What is the preferred procedure for an N-400 applicant to elect to be naturalized through a federal court ceremony rather than a CIS administrative ceremony? A verbal request during the naturalization interview? A writing submitted at interview?
ANSWER
The preferred way is to advise the officer at the N-400 interview. This can be communicated to the CIS after the fact, but the preference and best way is to notify the officer at the time of the interview. In addition, if the applicant is requesting a name change, the oath ceremony/naturalization must be done by a federal court.