KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Around 150 East Tennesseans are officially U.S. citizens as of Friday, after a naturalization ceremony welcomed them to the country in downtown Knoxville.
The ceremony was held Friday morning in the Knoxville City-County Building. The applicants came from 50 different countries across the world and as U.S. citizens they can apply for a passport, register to vote and sponsor other family members to move in.
"My parents wanted a better life for me," business owner Deep Soni said.
Soni said the process of becoming a citizen was extensive, but he's excited to celebrate.
"I might pop a champagne tonight and celebrate with my family," Soni said.
To take part in the naturalization ceremony, applicants had to go through years of work. The process usually includes taking biometric data, completing interviews and taking an Oath of Allegiance. Applicants also need to take a test showing they are proficient in English and understand U.S. civics.
Applicants have two attempts to take the tests. If they fail after their initial interview, they can be retested between 60 and 90 days from the date of their initial interview.