Exceptions to the English Requirement
EXCEPTIONS TO THE ENGLISH EXAMINATION FOR US CITIZENSHIP
| Exceptions [INA 312(b)] | Educational Requirements | |
|---|---|---|
| **English: | ||
| Read, write, speak, and understand** | **Civics: | |
| Knowledge of U.S. history and government** | ||
| Age 50 or older and resided in the United States as a lawful permanent resident (LPR) for at least 20 years at time of filing | Exempt | Still required. Applicants may take civics test in their language of choice using an interpreter. |
| Age 55 or older and resided in the United States as an LPR for at least 15 years at time of filing | Exempt | |
| Age 65 or older and resided in the United States as an LPR for at least 20 years at time of filing | Exempt | Still required but officers administer specially designated test forms. Applicants may take the civics test in their language of choice using an interpreter. |
| Medical Disability Exception (Form N-648) | May be exempt from English, civics, or both |