Generally, an applicant for citizenship must pass the English, civics and history tests to get US citizenship. In some instances, however, it is possible to waive the tests. For example, a person who is suffering from a medical condition that makes him unable to retain new information, such as dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, and will most likely not pass the English and civics test required to get US citizenship, can get the test waived if his doctor signs off on a waiver called N-648 Medical Certification for Disability Exceptions.

The first thing we do in a case like this is to get the client’s medical records, review them, and see if there is anything there that we can use as evidence to support his medical condition. If we can show that the applicant cannot pass the English and civics tests “because of physical or developmental disability or mental impairment” — such as dementia or Alzheimer’s disease case — and his regular physician is willing to fill out and sign the form required by the USCIS, then we can ask the government to waive the tests for citizenship. During the interview, the immigration officer will also verify if the applicant’s medical condition is true and correct.

If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us. Please see our website http://www.vcalderonlaw.com for more details.