The U.S. citizenship test is one of the final steps in becoming a U.S. citizen, but aspiring citizens may be exempt from certain portions of the test. Factors including age, years of residence, and medical conditions may allow immigrants to skip portions of the test.
Citizenship Test Exemptions
50/20 Rule– This rule applies to those ages 50 years or older, with 20+ years of permanent residence with a green card; they are exempt from the English test, but are still required to take the civics test. However, they may take the civics test in their native language and must provide an interpreter.
55/15 Rule– This rule is for those ages 55+ with 15+ years of permanent residence with a green card. They are exempt from taking the English test but are still required to take the civics test. However, they may take the civics test in their first language. They also must provide an interpreter.
65/20 Rule– This applies to those ages 65 and older with 20+ years of permanent residence with a green card. They are exempt from the English test and are required to take the civics test. However, they have the option to take the civics test with fewer options and in their first language. Instead of a pool of 100 possible questions, there will be a simplified pool of 20/ Participants will only need to study these 20 and pass six questions.
These exemptions are to be requested when filing the Form N-400.
Continuous Residence Exemption– If an individual is working abroad for one of the following organizations, they may qualify to be exempt from the continuous residence requirement in the United States: U.S. government or military, American institutions of research, American firms, media organizations, or American religious organizations. Participants must complete Form N-470 to count this time abroad as continuous residence in the United States.
Citizenship Test Disability Accommodations
Medical Disability– This applies to those with certain physical and developmental disabilities and will exempt the individual from both the English and civics tests. It also applies to a medical disability that affects the individual’s ability to show they understand U.S. civics and basic English.
If a healthcare provider completes the required Form N-648, individuals may be exempt from the English and civics tests.
Accommodations are also available for those with medical disabilities or impairments who are seeking extra help or support during their test-taking. An accommodation is a change made to the test that helps individuals get the same chance and results as those without disabilities or impairments. Some accommodations include:
- Receiving more time to complete the test
- Taking breaks during the test
- Taking the test in your home
- Orally completing the writing portion of the test
- Taking the reading test in braille or large print
- Have a sign language interpreter available
- Allowing a family member, legal guardian, or other representative to attend your interview
Seek Legal Assistance for Guidance on Citizenship Test Exemptions
It is recommended to seek legal support [link to find an Immigration Atty article] when filing forms like those mentioned above. Further, if a filed exemption has been denied, you may seek assistance to properly appeal the decision.
Learn more about exceptions and accommodations at the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services website.
About JFCS Pittsburgh Immigration Legal Services
Jewish Family and Community Services (JFCS) Pittsburgh offers a range of services and resources to community members in need of legal advice relating to immigration matters. For more information, please call JFCS Senior Services at (412) 422-7200 or visit www.jfcspgh.org/immigration-legal-services.