Embarking on the journey towards U.S. citizenship often presents a formidable obstacle: the citizenship exam. This evaluation tests proficiency in English and knowledge of civics, posing a significant challenge, especially for older candidates. However, U.S. immigration law acknowledges the unique hurdles faced by older individuals and extends age-related accommodations to facilitate the process. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore these accommodations and offer invaluable insights for individuals aged 50 and above who aspire to become naturalized U.S. citizens.
The Challenge of Learning Later in Life
As individuals age, acquiring new skills like learning a new language or memorizing factual material can become increasingly arduous. Recognizing this, U.S. immigration law, under I.N.A. § 312, permits older applicants for naturalization to request adjustments to the English and civics exams, rendering them more manageable. Let’s delve into the specifics of these accommodations.
Civics Test “65/20” Exception for Elder Applicants
For green card holders aged 65 or older, who have resided in the U.S. as permanent residents for at least 20 years (not necessarily consecutively), the “65/20 exception” provides a valuable concession. This exception offers a condensed version of the history and government (civics) exam, reducing the number of questions from 100 to just 20. Applicants falling into this category need to study and answer ten out of these 20 questions correctly to pass. The questions are accessible on the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website, along with various study materials in multiple languages. Look for questions marked with a star or asterisk (*) to identify those relevant to 65/20 applicants.
English Requirement “50/20” and “55/15” Exceptions for Advanced Age
While most naturalization applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English during the citizenship interview, two exceptions, the “50/20” and “55/15” waivers, permit older individuals to bypass this requirement. These waivers enable candidates to have their interviews conducted in their native language with the aid of an interpreter.
The “50/20” Waiver: Individuals aged 50 or older, with at least 20 years of green card status, qualify for the “50/20” waiver. Notably, these 20 years of permanent residence need not be continuous, allowing for short trips outside the U.S. without affecting eligibility, as long as the total time spent in the U.S. adds up to 20 years.
The “55/15” Waiver: Available for those aged 55 or older, who have lived in the U.S. as green card holders for at least 15 years. Similar to the “50/20” waiver, these 15 years do not need to be consecutive.
How to Request an English-Language Exemption
While you can request the civics exam exemption during the interview, if you require an age-related English-language exception, it’s prudent to notify USCIS beforehand. This ensures a smooth interview process. When requesting an English-language exception, bring an interpreter proficient in both your native language and English. Exercise caution in selecting an interpreter to avoid any confusion that could jeopardize your citizenship application.
Navigating the path to U.S. citizenship can be daunting, especially when confronted with language and civics exams. For older applicants, age-related accommodations offer a pathway to make this journey more accessible. Whether you qualify for the “65/20,” “50/20,” or “55/15” exception, understanding the criteria and preparing accordingly is paramount. In essence, age should not impede your pursuit of U.S. citizenship. By leveraging these accommodations and seeking guidance from immigration professionals, you can embark on your naturalization journey with confidence.
