USCIS recently modified its Policy Manual regarding adjudication of the Form N-648, disability waiver for the English language and civics requirements for naturalization. Earlier guidance greatly expanded the grounds for denying an N-648 application and made it more difficult for disabled applicants seeking to naturalize. The most recent changes that took effect on Dec. 4, 2020, are minor updates that bring the guidance in line with the latest edition of the N-648.

CLINIC submitted comments on Jan. 16, 2019 about proposed changes to USCIS policy, procedures and adjudications on the Form N-648 Medical Certification for Disability Exceptions, opposing the changes.

CLINIC along with 29 other members of the Naturalization Working Group submitted a joint public comment on Oct. 7 opposing changes to Form-648 and instructions, which will put up new barriers for naturalization for applicants with disabilities.

CLINIC submitted comments about proposed changes to Form N-648 Medical Certification for Disability Exceptions on June 24, 2019, opposing the additional burdens the revised version of the form would place on the applicant and the certifying doctor.

CLINIC submitted a comment in response to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services’ proposed changes to Form N-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card. CLINIC’s comment focuses on the removal of information about accommodations for those with disabilities, and the inclusion of new questions related to the applicant’s foreign travel and residences and employment abroad.

Request for Accommodations at USCIS Interview Sample Letter