Among the requirements to obtain U.S. Citizenship, with only very limited exceptions, all applicants must be able to speak, read and write a limited amount of English and demonstrate knowledge of U.S. government and history.

INS regulations provide for a waiver for individuals who are physically or mentally unable to comply with these requirements due to a permanent disability. In order to apply for a waiver of these requirements, applicants must present conclusive medical documentation that details the medical condition of the applicant and why this condition prevents the applicant from either speaking and/or learning English and/or learning the principles of U.S. government and history.

• If you are unable to understand even a little English, you may be eligible to request such a waiver based on your medical condition that prevents you from learning English. You are required to use the form N-648 Medical Certification for Disability Exceptions to obtain the required explanation from your doctor. Have your doctor return this form to you to include in your application for citizenship. If you have more than one doctor that knows your medical condition, you may make copies of this form and request each of your doctors to prepare an explanation for you. (If you have already filed your application (form N-400) with the INS, bring your doctor's letter to your interview and present them to the examiner at the beginning of your interview.)
  
  
• If you are unable IN YOUR NATIVE LANGUAGE to learn fundamental information about U.S. History and government due to your medical condition, you must also request that your doctor explain why you are unable to do so. Your doctor(s) must be complete in his/her explanation of why you cannot meet the U.S government and history requirement.
  
  
• If you are able to speak and understand even a little English, you are strongly encouraged to apply for citizenship and have your interview in English.

There is NO GUARANTEE of a medical waiver. The INS will decide at the time of your interview whether to grant your request of a waiver.