Updates to N-648 Remove Barriers to Naturalization for Applicants with Disabilities

On October 19, 2022, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced updated policy guidance to Form N-648, Medical Certification for Disability Exceptions. Naturalization applicants with a physical or developmental disability or mental impairment that prevents them from fulfilling the English and civics testing requirements for naturalization may file Form N-648 to request an exception to those requirements. The form must be completed and certified by a medical professional.

In an effort to remove barriers to legal immigration under the Biden Administration, Form N-648 has been shortened and made simpler. Based on public comments, revisions to Form N-648 reduce burdens on applicants and the agency by eliminating questions and language that were no longer practical or were redundant. The updated policy also provides guidance for telehealth medical examinations and allows USCIS to accept applicants’ Form N-648 after they file Form N-400, Application for Naturalization.