Waiver of U.S. Citizenship Test

Waiver of the U.S. Citizenship Test and How to Qualify: Section 312 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) requires that naturalization applicants must demonstrate an ability to read, write, and speak words in ordinary usage in the English language, and have a knowledge and understanding of U.S. history and government. However, there are many people who are unable to comply with citizenship requirements due to age, medical disability or mental impairment. Therefore, there are exceptions and modifications to the citizenship requirements that are available to those who qualify.

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 (“50/20”) 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 (“55/15”).

Note: Even if you qualify for the “50/20” or “55/15” English language exceptions listed above, you must still take the civics test. You may be permitted to take the civics test in your native language, but only if your spoken English is insufficient to conduct a valid examination in English. 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 to English and Civics

  • 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.

If you have any questions regarding your naturalization (citizenship) issues, please contact the attorneys at Gopal & Pedigo, PC. We are conveniently located in Nashville, TN.