Yes, there are several exceptions to the English requirement for U.S. citizenship. Certain applicants may qualify for age and residency exemptions, medical or disability waivers, or accommodations that allow them to take the civics test in their native language.
Introduction
Becoming a U.S. citizen through naturalization is a dream for millions of immigrants. But one of the biggest worries many applicants face is the English requirement for U.S. citizenship. If English is not your first language—or if you struggle with reading, writing, or speaking—you may wonder if this barrier will stop you from becoming a citizen.
The good news is that the law recognizes exceptions. Congress and USCIS (United States citizenship and immigration services, the agency responsible for administering exceptions and accommodations—immigration services uscis) allow exemptions and accommodations for certain applicants, including those who have lived in the United States for decades, seniors, and people with certain medical conditions.
This guide provides a comprehensive, 3,000-word overview of the naturalization English requirement (referring to english language proficiency as tested by USCIS), including who must meet it, who is exempt, how to apply for exemptions, and how the civics test works for non-English speakers.
What Is the English Requirement for U.S. Citizenship?
Snippet Callout: The English requirement tests reading, writing, and speaking skills as part of the English portion of the naturalization test during your naturalization interview, unless you qualify for an exemption.
To become a U.S. citizen, most applicants must demonstrate an ability to meet the english language requirement by showing the applicant’s ability to read, write, and speak English:
- Pass the reading test in English – Read one of three sentences correctly.
- Pass the writing test in English – Write one of three sentences correctly.
- Pass the speaking test in English – Answer questions in English during the interview.
This test is given at your naturalization interview with a USCIS officer, usually after you submit your Form N-400, Application for Naturalization.
However, not everyone is required to meet this standard. There are important exceptions based on age, residency, disability, and other factors.
Who Does Not Have to Meet the English Requirement?
USCIS provides three main types of exceptions to the English requirement:
Age-Based Exceptions
Snippet Callout: Long-term green card holders of certain ages are exempt from the English test but must still pass the civics test. These are considered residency exceptions and specific exceptions to the English requirement.
- 50/20 Rule Citizenship Exemption
- If you are 50 years of age or older and have been a lawful permanent resident for at least 20 years after lawful admission, you are exempt from the English requirement.
- You must still take the civics test, but you can take it in your preferred language or his or her language with an interpreter.
- 55/15 Rule Naturalization Exemption
- If you are 55 years of age or older and have been a lawful permanent resident for at least 15 years after lawful admission, you are exempt from the English requirement.
- Like the 50/20 rule, you can take the civics test in your preferred language or his or her language.
- 65/20 Rule Simplified Civics Test
- If you are 65 years of age or older and have been a lawful permanent resident for at least 20 years after lawful admission, you are exempt from the English requirement.
- You can also take a simplified civics test, with fewer questions focused on U.S. history and government basics.
- An applicant receives special consideration under this rule and is administered specific test forms in his or her preferred language with the help of an interpreter.
Example: Maria is 55 years of age and has been a resident for at least 15 years. She qualifies under the 55/15 rule and receives special consideration for the civics test, which she can take in Spanish with an interpreter.
Medical Disability Waivers (Form N-648)
Snippet Callout: A medical or developmental disability, or other medical condition, may exempt applicants from both the English and civics test requirements.
If you have a physical, developmental, or mental impairment or other medical condition that makes it impossible to learn English or civics, you may apply for a medical disability waiver (also known as a medical disability exception) using Form N-648, Medical Certification for Disability Exceptions. Medical disability exceptions may exempt eligible applicants from both the English and civics requirements. These waivers also exempt applicants from certain educational requirements, and USCIS provides disability accommodations and reasonable accommodations for those who qualify, such as interpreters, accessible facilities, extended time, or alternative testing formats.
- The form must be completed by a licensed medical doctor, clinical psychologist, or osteopath.
- Conditions may include:
- Physical or developmental disabilities.
- Alzheimer’s disease or dementia.
- Severe mental health conditions.
- Other impairments or medical conditions documented by a physician.
If approved, you may be exempt from the civics requirement as well as the English requirement.
Other Accommodations
Even if you don’t qualify for an exemption, you may qualify for accommodations under federal law.
Examples include:
- Sign-language interpreters for the hearing-impaired.
- Extended interview time for applicants with learning disabilities.
- Modified test formats for people with physical limitations.
- Requesting accommodations directly on Form N-400.
Military Service Exceptions
Military service members and veterans have unique pathways and exceptions in the citizenship process, thanks to special provisions in the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). Recognizing the sacrifices made by those who serve, the INA streamlines the naturalization process and offers specific accommodations to make U.S. citizenship more accessible for military personnel.
Can You Take the Civics Test in Your Native Language?
Yes—if you qualify for an English exemption, you can use an interpreter for the civics test.
- If you qualify under the 50/20 rule or 55/15 rule, you can take the civics test in your native language with the help of an interpreter, or in your preferred language or his or her language, as allowed by USCIS.
- USCIS requires that interpreters take an oath to translate accurately.
- The 65/20 exemption provides a simplified civics test with fewer questions.
Applicants who qualify for these exemptions are administered specific test forms tailored to their needs.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for an English Exemption
Applying for an exemption requires submitting the right forms and supporting evidence. Immigration services can assist with the process, especially for applicants with medical disabilities.
Here’s a step-by-step outline:
- File Form N-400 – The application for naturalization.
- Check Age Exemptions – If you qualify under the 50/20, 55/15, or 65/20 rule, no extra form is required.
- Submit Form N-648 (if applicable) – Attach this if claiming a medical or disability exemption.
- Provide Documentation – Include medical certifications, proof of residence length, and any accommodation requests.
- Prepare for the Civics Test – If exempt from English but not civics, practice questions in your native language.
Common Myths and Misunderstandings
Many people believe myths about the English requirement that are not true.
- “I’m too old to apply for citizenship.”
- False. Age may actually help you qualify for exemptions.
- “If I don’t speak English, I can’t become a citizen.”
- False. Exemptions exist, and many immigrants naturalize in their native language.
- “I failed the test once, I can’t try again.”
- False. You can retake the test one more time within 90 days. If an applicant fails the English or civics test, a re-examination is scheduled, and only the applicant’s failed portions are retested.
Ultimate FAQ: English Requirement Exemptions for U.S. Citizenship
General Questions About the English Requirement
1. What is the English requirement for U.S. citizenship?Applicants must demonstrate the ability to read, write, and speak basic English during the naturalization interview, unless they qualify for an exemption. The english language requirement is a key eligibility criterion and part of the naturalization process. Demonstrating the applicant’s ability to use English in ordinary usage—meaning common, everyday English, even with some errors—is required.
2. Why does the U.S. require English proficiency for naturalization?The requirement is designed to promote civic participation and integration, but Congress created exemptions recognizing that not all lawful permanent residents can reasonably meet it.
3. Is the English requirement the same as the civics test requirement?No. The English test measures language skills, while the civics test measures knowledge of U.S. history and government. The English and civics requirements are separate parts of the naturalization process. You may be exempt from English but still need to pass civics.
4. Are exemptions permanent protections under the law?Yes. Exemptions are written into federal law and regulations. They are not optional policies that a president like Trump can remove unilaterally.
5. Can the rules change under a new administration?While USCIS can change test procedures, the age and medical exemptions are grounded in statute and remain available regardless of who is president.
Age and Residency Exemptions
6. What is the 50/20 rule for U.S. citizenship?Applicants aged 50 or older with at least 20 years of lawful permanent residency are exempt from the English requirement. The 50/20 rule applies to applicants who have been a permanent resident for at least 20 years.
7. What is the 55/15 rule for naturalization?Applicants aged 55 or older with at least 15 years of permanent residency are exempt from the English requirement. The 55/15 rule applies to applicants who have been a permanent resident for at least 15 years.
8. What is the 65/20 rule for naturalization?Applicants aged 65 or older with at least 20 years of permanent residency are exempt from the English requirement and receive a simplified civics test. The 65/20 rule applies to applicants who have been a permanent resident for at least 20 years.
9. Can I use my time as a conditional permanent resident toward the 15- or 20-year requirement?Yes. Time spent as a conditional permanent resident counts toward the total.
10. Do I need to file a special form to claim an age exemption?No. Age and residency exemptions are automatic, but you should bring proof of your green card history.
11. How does USCIS calculate years of residency?They use the “Resident Since” date on your green card, which starts when you became a lawful permanent resident. The continuous residence requirement is based on your permanent residence after lawful admission.
12. If I am close to the age cutoff, should I wait to apply?Yes, sometimes waiting until you qualify for an exemption makes sense, especially if English is a barrier.
13. Can I combine years of different immigration statuses to meet the requirement?No. Only years as a lawful permanent resident count.
14. Do widows/widowers of U.S. citizens get special age exemptions?No. Exemptions are based solely on age and length of permanent residency.
15. Do military naturalization applicants have different English exemptions?Military applicants must still meet English requirements unless they qualify under the same age or disability exemptions. However, military members and those serving in the armed forces may have special provisions for expedited naturalization, but must still meet the English and civics requirements unless exempt.
Medical and Disability Waivers
16. What is Form N-648, and who fills it out?Form N-648 is the medical certification for disability exceptions. It must be completed by a licensed physician, clinical psychologist, or doctor of osteopathy.
17. What types of conditions qualify for a medical exemption?Physical, developmental, or mental impairments that prevent learning English or civics, such as dementia, Alzheimer’s, severe PTSD, or intellectual disabilities.
18. Can temporary medical conditions qualify?No. The condition must be permanent or long-term.
19. Can mental health conditions like severe depression or anxiety qualify?Yes, if they are well-documented and shown to impair learning.
20. Does age-related memory loss qualify?Yes, if a doctor diagnoses it as a medical impairment like dementia.
21. Can USCIS challenge my doctor’s N-648 form?Yes. USCIS may ask for clarification or deny it if incomplete or inconsistent.
22. What happens if USCIS denies my N-648 medical waiver?You may have to take the English and civics tests, but you can resubmit with stronger documentation.
23. Can my family doctor fill out Form N-648?Yes, if they are licensed and qualified under USCIS rules.
24. Can trauma survivors qualify for an exemption?Yes, if documented by a licensed medical professional as preventing learning.
25. Does USCIS provide interpreters for medical waiver applicants?No. You must bring your own interpreter if needed.
Civics Test and Native Language Options
26. If I’m exempt from the English requirement, do I still take the civics test?Yes, but you can take it in your native language with an interpreter. The civics requirements must still be met unless you are exempt due to a qualifying medical disability.
27. What does the simplified civics test for 65/20 applicants look like?It has fewer questions (20 instead of 100), and applicants only need to answer six correctly out of ten.
28. Can I bring a family member as my interpreter?Generally, no. Interpreters must not be family members to avoid conflicts of interest.
29. Do interpreters need to be certified?No, but they must take an oath to translate truthfully and accurately.
30. Will USCIS provide study materials in my language?Yes, civics test materials are available in many languages through USCIS.
Accommodations vs. Exemptions
31. What’s the difference between an exemption and an accommodation?An exemption means you don’t have to meet the requirement. An accommodation means USCIS adjusts the process to your needs (e.g., extra time, sign-language interpreter).
32. What kinds of accommodations can USCIS provide?Extended interview time, interpreters for the hearing-impaired, large-print materials, and modified test formats.
33. Do I need to request accommodations in advance?Yes. You should request them when filing Form N-400.
34. Can USCIS deny accommodation requests?Yes, if they are not reasonable or not supported by documentation.
35. Will accommodations delay my case?They may slightly extend scheduling, but they should not cause significant delays.
Less Common Questions
36. Can blindness or vision impairment qualify for an exemption?Not automatically, but accommodations like Braille or oral exams may be available.
37. Can dyslexia qualify for a medical exemption?Yes, if diagnosed and shown to prevent learning English.
38. Do people living abroad as LPRs still qualify for age exemptions?Yes, but only if they maintained continuous residence and meet physical presence rules.
39. If my N-648 is denied, can I appeal?Yes, you can reapply or request a hearing with USCIS.
40. Do humanitarian parolees get exemptions?No. Only lawful permanent residents can apply for citizenship and exemptions.
41. Does the exemption apply if I used a reentry permit and lived outside the U.S. for years?Possibly, but extended absences may break continuous residence, affecting eligibility.
42. Can undocumented immigrants qualify for exemptions?No. Exemptions only apply to green card holders applying for citizenship.
43. Do refugees and asylees qualify for age exemptions once they adjust to green card status?Yes, once they become permanent residents and meet the age/residency rules.
44. Can exemptions be granted automatically by USCIS officers?No. You must meet the requirements or file the correct forms.
45. Does failing the test once disqualify me from future exemptions?No. You may still qualify for exemptions based on age or disability.
Application Process and Strategy
46. How do I apply for an English exemption when filing Form N-400?Simply indicate your exemption category (age/residency or disability) and include Form N-648 if claiming a medical exemption.
47. Should I wait until I qualify for an age exemption to apply?Many applicants do, especially if English is a barrier. It may save stress and increase approval chances.
48. Can hiring an immigration attorney improve my chances of approval?Yes. Attorneys can help file exemptions properly, prepare medical evidence, and represent you at the interview.
49. Does claiming an exemption delay my naturalization?It may add time for USCIS to review documentation, but it generally does not cause major delays.
50. What should I do if I am afraid Trump’s policies will make naturalization harder?You should apply as soon as you are eligible. Exemptions are protected by law, and becoming a citizen locks in constitutional rights that cannot be taken away by executive policy changes.
Take the Next Step Toward Citizenship with the Right Guidance
Struggling with English should not stop you from becoming a U.S. citizen. The law provides important exceptions and accommodations to the English requirement on the N-400 naturalization application—but proving your eligibility and filing correctly can be confusing. Mistakes or missing documentation may lead to delays or denials.
This is where an experienced immigration attorney can make all the difference. Richard T. Herman, founder of the Herman Legal Group, has been helping immigrants for more than 30 years. He and his team understand the challenges faced by seniors, long-term green card holders, and applicants with medical or developmental disabilities. They know how to:
- Evaluate whether you qualify for an age-based exemption (50/20, 55/15, or 65/20 rules).
- Guide you through the Form N-648 medical waiver process if you have a qualifying disability.
- Request the right USCIS accommodations for your interview and civics test.
- Protect you from mistakes that could cost you time, money, and peace of mind.
Becoming a U.S. citizen gives you the strongest constitutional protections, the right to vote, and security against deportation. Don’t let fear of the English requirement hold you back.
👉 Contact Attorney Richard T. Herman today for a confidential consultation and get the guidance you need to succeed. Call us at 216-696-6170
Schedule Your Consultation Now
Government Resources
- USCIS – Exceptions and Accommodations
Explains general exceptions to naturalization requirements, including English/language exemptions, medical disability waivers, and how to request accommodations. - USCIS – English and Civics Testing (Policy Manual, Vol. 12, Part E, Ch. 2)
Provides detailed guidance on age-based and medical/disability exemptions (50/20, 55/15, 65/20 rules), plus requirements for Form N-648. - USCIS – Naturalization Test and Study Resources
Offers free study materials, flash cards, practice tests, and multilingual resources to help prepare for the English and civics tests. - USCIS – Citizenship Resource Center
A central hub for information about citizenship eligibility, the N-400 application, exemptions, and community-based educational tools. - USCIS – The Naturalization Interview and Test
Explains what to expect in the naturalization interview, how English is tested, and where exemptions or accommodations apply.
Professional Associations & Advocacy Organizations
- American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA)
A national association of immigration lawyers. Use their directory to find attorneys experienced in naturalization and exemption cases. - National Immigration Project of the National Lawyers Guild (NIPNLG)
Provides advocacy, legal resources, and community education on immigrant rights, including naturalization exceptions. - Immigration Advocates Network
Offers a directory of nonprofit and low-cost immigration legal services, along with self-help resources. - American Bar Association – Commission on Immigration
Publishes guides and provides legal resources on citizenship and immigrant protections; includes directories of legal aid. - American Immigration Council
A nonprofit providing policy updates, research, and advocacy resources to defend immigrant rights and access to naturalization. - Immigration Justice Campaign
Connects immigrants to free legal support and advocates for fair access to citizenship and naturalization.
