Qualifications & Requirements for the U.S. Citizenship Exam Waiver 

An Immigration Question Attorney can be a valuable resource on your path to U.S. citizenship. Becoming a U.S. citizen is a significant step for any immigrant. Naturalized citizens enjoy numerous benefits, including the right to vote, travel with a U.S. passport, and access federal jobs and benefits. However, the process can be challenging without legal assistance. Visit ImmigrationQuestion.com to hire an experienced Immigration Question lawyer today! 

Obtaining U.S. citizenship requires applicants to pass a naturalization interview and examination, which includes an English language test and a civics test. These requirements can be challenging for some applicants due to age, disability, or other circumstances. Fortunately, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) provides exceptions and modifications to the naturalization process.  

What to Expect During the Naturalization Process 

There are multiple steps in the naturalization process. Every applicant must go through an interview and examination, which involves: 

• Reviewing the information provided in the Application for Naturalization (Form N-400) 

• A Civics test on questions about U.S. history and government  

• An English test to determine the applicant’s ability to read, write, and speak basic English 

Where an applicant fails the test, USCIS may offer a second opportunity, a re-examination, within 60 to 90 days.  

Who Qualifies for a Citizenship Exam Waiver? 

Specific individuals may qualify for exceptions that waive or modify the abovementioned requirements. Consulting an Immigration Question attorney can help clarify your eligibility. According to USCIS, here are the classes of people who qualify for a citizenship exam waiver. 

1. English Language Waiver for Elderly Applicants

These applicants can be exempted from the English language requirement but must still take the civics test. The exemptions are based on age and the length of time the applicant has been a lawful permanent resident. 

You qualify for an English test waiver if: 

• If you are 50 years or older when filing for naturalization and have lived as a permanent resident for 20 years (also known as the “50/20” exception) 

• If you are 55 or older and have lived as a permanent resident for 15 years (“55/15” exception) 

• If you are 65 years or older and have been a permanent resident for at least 20 years, you will also receive special consideration for the civics test 

You must note that if you qualify for the English language exemption, you must take the civics test. Applicants may take the civics test in their native language but must bring an interpreter to the interview. 

2. English and Civics Test Waiver for Applicants with Disabilities 

Applicants with physical, developmental, or mental impairments that prevent them from meeting the English and civics requirements may qualify for a complete waiver. 

Applicants must submit Form N-648, Medical Certification for Disability Exceptions, to request this exception. The form must be completed by: 

• A licensed medical or osteopathic doctor 

• A licensed clinical psychologist 

What Happens After Filing Form N-648? 

• A USCIS officer will review the medical certification and may ask additional questions during the interview. 

• The applicant will be exempted from the English and civics tests if the request is approved. 

3. Waiver for Applicants with Special Hardships

In rare cases, USCIS may consider waivers for applicants facing extreme hardships, such as severe medical conditions that do not fully meet the Form N-648 criteria but still make it impossible to complete the exam. If you believe you have special circumstances, consult an immigration Question lawyer to know your options. 

How to Apply for a Citizenship Exam Waiver 

Here is a quick rundown of the steps to get a U.S. citizenship exam waiver.  

1. Determine Your Eligibility – Review the above age or disability-based qualifications. 

1. Complete the Required Forms – Ensure a licensed professional properly fills out your Form N-648. 

1. Gather Supporting Documents – Medical records, proof of long-term residency, and identity documents may be required. 

1. Submit Your Application – Include any exemption requests when filing Form N-400, Application for Naturalization. 

1. Attend Your Interview – Get ready to discuss your request with a USCIS officer. If you are using an interpreter, they must accompany you. 

Seek Legal Guidance Through Immigration Question 

The naturalization process and application for potential waivers can be demanding. A skilled Immigration Question attorney can guide you through eligibility requirements, help complete the necessary filings, and ensure you receive any exemptions you qualify for. 

Would you like assistance finding a trusted Immigration Question lawyer for your case? Visit ImmigrationQuestion.com to connect with our network of top immigration lawyers. 

FAQs About Citizenship Exam Waiver 

1. What is a citizenship exam waiver?

A citizenship exam waiver is an exemption from the English language and/or civics test required for U.S. naturalization. USCIS grants waivers based on age, length of residency, or medical disabilities. 

2. Who qualifies for an English language test exemption?

People 50 or older who have been permanent residents for at least 20 years. People 55 or older who have been permanent residents for at least 15 years. Even if you qualify, you must still take the civics test, but you can do so in your native language with an interpreter. 

3. Who qualifies for an English language and Civics test exemption?

People 65 years or older and who have been permanent residents for at least 20 years may receive special consideration for the civics test, but not a total waiver. However, applicants with a medical disability that prevents them from meeting the requirement may receive a full exemption. 

4. How do I qualify for a disability waiver?

You may qualify if you have a physical, developmental, or mental impairment that prevents you from learning English or civics. You must submit Form N-648, Medical Certification for Disability Exceptions, completed by a licensed medical practitioner. 

5. If I qualify for the citizenship exam waiver, do I still need to attend the interview?

All applicants must attend the naturalization interview, even those granted a waiver. If you qualify for an English language exemption, you may bring an interpreter to assist you. 

6. Can I bring an interpreter for my naturalization interview?

Applicants who qualify for an English language exemption can bring an interpreter fluent in English and their native language. 

7. Can I fail the naturalization test?

Many people pass the naturalization test, but it is possible to fail without adequate preparation. If you fail the English or civics test, you will be scheduled for a re-examination within 60 to 90 days to retake the failed portion. If you fail again, your naturalization application may be denied. 

8. Can USCIS deny my request for a waiver?

USCIS officers review waiver requests on a case-by-case basis. If your request lacks sufficient evidence or your Form N-648 is incomplete, USCIS may deny it. 

9. How long does it take to get a decision on my waiver request?

Processing times vary, but USCIS typically reviews waiver requests during the naturalization interview. If additional evidence is required, it may delay the decision. 

10. Should I hire an immigration lawyer to help with my waiver request?

Although it isn’t required, hiring an immigration Question attorney can increase your chances of approval. An experienced Immigration Question lawyer can help you properly complete forms, gather supporting documents, and prepare for your interview.