The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) recently updated its naturalization policy guidance to make the citizenship process more accessible for applicants with disabilities. The new updates, which simplify both the naturalization form and policy, aim to reduce application obstacles and make U.S. citizenship attainable for a broader range of people.
As part of the U.S. citizenship process, applicants are usually required to pass a two-part test to demonstrate English language skills and knowledge of U.S. civics. However, exemptions exist for individuals with certain disabilities. Those with long-term physical, developmental, or mental disabilities can apply for test exemptions by submitting Form N-648, the Medical Certification for Disability Exceptions. A certified medical professional must assist with the form.
To streamline the filing process for both applicants and medical providers, USCIS recently revised Form N-648 with the following changes:
- Removed unnecessary and redundant questions
- Eliminated the need to list diagnosis dates
- No longer requires a description of disability severity
- Removed the need to disclose the prior relationship between the medical provider and the applicant
- Updated guidance for conducting medical exams via telehealth
- Allows inclusion of an oath waiver request
- Permits Form N-648 submissions after a naturalization application is filed
These updates are part of the Biden administration’s broader initiative to reduce citizenship barriers for underserved communities and to encourage eligible green card holders to apply for citizenship. USCIS Director Ur M. Jaddou highlighted the agency’s commitment to serving the public more effectively, stating, “This is a wonderful example of how USCIS is listening to the public it serves to better address their needs while fulfilling our responsibilities as an agency.”
These improvements reflect USCIS’s focus on removing obstacles and making the naturalization process fair and accessible for all eligible applicants.
