Exceptions & Accommodations to the Naturalization
There are exceptions and modifications to the naturalization requirements that are available to those who qualify. USCIS also provides accommodations for individuals with disabilities.
For more information visit: http://www.uscis.gov/us-citizenship/citizenship-through-naturalization/guide-naturalization & http://www.uscis.gov/policymanual/HTML/PolicyManual-Volume12.html.
English Language Exemptions: You are exempt from the English language requirement, but are still required to take the civics test if you are:
- Age 50 or older at the time of filing for naturalization and have lived as a permanent resident (green card holder) in the United States for 20 years (commonly referred to as the “50/20” exception); or
- Age 55 or older at the time of filing for naturalization and have lived as a permanent resident in the United States for 15 years (commonly referred to as the “55/15” exception).
Note: (i) Even if you qualify for the “50/20” or “55/15” English language exceptions listed above, you must still take the civics test;
(ii) You may be permitted to take the civics test in your native language, but only if your understanding of spoken English is insufficient to conduct a valid examination in English.
(iii) If you take the test in your native language, you must bring an interpreter with you to your interview.
(iv)Your interpreter must be fluent in both English and your native language.
(v) If you are age 65 or older and have been a permanent resident for at least 20 years at the time of filing for naturalization, you will be given special consideration regarding the civics requirement.
Medical Disability Exceptions: You may be eligible for an exception to the English and civics naturalization requirements if you are unable to comply with these requirements because of a physical or developmental disability or a mental impairment. To request this exception, please submit Form N-648. This form must be completed by a licensed medical or osteopathic doctor, or licensed clinical psychologist.
Continuous Residence Exceptions: If you are engaged in certain kinds of overseas employment you may be eligible for an exception to the continuous residence requirement.
Disability Accommodations: Under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, accommodations or modifications are provided for applicants with physical or mental impairments that make it difficult for them to complete the naturalization process. Applicants are encouraged to list their needs in the space provided on Form N-400.
After applying for naturalization and in order to be naturalized, you must take an oath of allegiance in a public ceremony. The law allows for certain modifications to the Oath of Allegiance. For more information please see Section 337 of the Immigration Nationality Act (INA) and 8 CFR 337.1(b).