Understanding Form N-648: The USCIS Medical Waiver for U.S. Citizenship

Becoming a U.S. citizen is a significant milestone for many immigrants, but the process can be challenging. One of the key requirements for naturalization is passing both the English and civics tests. However, for individuals with certain medical or mental health conditions, meeting these requirements may be impossible. That’s where the citizenship medical waiver form N-648 comes in. Also known as USCIS Form N-648, this medical certification allows eligible applicants to request an exemption from the English and civics tests due to physical or mental impairments. 

What is Form N-648?

Form N-648 is used to request a Medical Waiver for U.S. Citizenship applicants who are unable to meet the English and civics requirements for medical reasons. It allows applicants with physical or mental conditions to bypass these tests if their condition limits their ability to understand or learn English and U.S. civics.

The form must be completed by a licensed medical professional, such as a physician or clinical psychologist, who is familiar with the applicant's condition. While the applicant’s personal physician is often the most suitable person to fill out this form, any licensed medical doctor, doctor of osteopathy, or clinical psychologist may certify it.

Who Qualifies for the Medical Exemption on the Citizenship Test?

To qualify for the medical exemption, applicants must demonstrate that they have a permanent or long-term medical condition that prevents them from fulfilling the English and civics requirements. Conditions that may qualify include:

Physical Disabilities

These can include severe conditions that limit an individual's ability to speak or learn, such as neurological disorders or stroke.

Mental Disabilities

Conditions such as dementia, severe memory loss, or developmental disabilities like autism or intellectual disabilities may also qualify.

Developmental Disabilities

Learning disabilities or conditions that significantly hinder an individual’s ability to retain and learn information.

The Role of Medical Professionals in Completing Form N-648

Healthcare providers are crucial in completing Form N-648. The medical professional must provide detailed documentation and explain why the applicant cannot pass the English and civics tests due to their condition.

Key responsibilities for the medical provider include:

• Thorough Documentation: The medical provider must include a complete and accurate history of the applicant’s condition, such as diagnosis and treatment.
• Diagnosis and Impact: The medical provider must explain how the condition prevents the applicant from learning English or understanding U.S. civics.
• Certification: The medical provider must certify that the applicant’s condition is permanent or long-term and cannot reasonably be expected to improve sufficiently to meet the tests.

How to Complete and Submit Form N-648

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to fill out and submit Form N-648:

• Step 1: Complete Part 1 (Applicant’s Information): The applicant provides personal information, including their name, date of birth, and Alien Registration Number (A-Number).
• Step 2: Completion of Part 2 (Medical Professional’s Statement): The medical professional fills out the details about the applicant’s condition, diagnosis, and how it impacts their ability to pass the English and civics tests.
• Step 3: Supporting Documentation: It’s essential for the doctor to submit supporting medical documents, such as medical records or diagnosis letters, to validate the claims made in the form.
• Step 4: Submit with Form N-400: Once Form N-648 is completed, it must be submitted along with Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization). Both forms should be filed together as part of the overall naturalization application.

What Happens After You Submit Form N-648?

After submitting Form N-648 with Form N-400, the USCIS will review both forms to determine whether the medical exemption will be granted. Here’s what to expect:

1. Review by USCIS: USCIS will assess Form N-648 and supporting medical documentation. If everything is in order, the exemption may be granted without further complications.
2. Possible Interview: If the waiver is granted, applicants may still be required to attend a naturalization interview. During this interview, a USCIS officer may ask questions about the applicant's medical condition to confirm eligibility for the waiver.
3. Additional Evaluation: USCIS may request further medical evaluations or additional documentation if needed. If the initial submission is incomplete, this could cause delays.
4. USCIS Decision: Ultimately, USCIS will make the final decision on whether the applicant qualifies for the medical exemption and can bypass the English and civics tests.

The Impact of Form N-648 on Your U.S. Citizenship Application

Submitting Form N-648 allows applicants to be exempt from the English and civics tests as part of the naturalization process. However, it’s important to note that other parts of the naturalization process still apply:

• Background Check: Applicants will still undergo a background check to ensure they meet other eligibility criteria.
• Moral Character Assessment: Applicants must still demonstrate good moral character, which is a requirement for naturalization.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Filing Form N-648

You will not be given a copy of the form or be allowed to review it. It will be issued to you in a tightly sealed envelope, which you must submit to USCIS with the seal intact.

To avoid delays and ensure smooth processing of Form N-648, applicants should avoid the following common mistakes:

1. Incomplete Forms: Ensure that your doctor understands that all sections of Form N-648 must be fully completed. Missing information can result in delays or rejection.
2. Incorrect Medical Information: Ensure that the medical provider understands that he/she must provide accurate and thorough documentation of the applicant’s condition.
3. Failure to Meet Deadlines: Be mindful of filing deadlines. Submitting forms after certain deadlines could affect the processing of your naturalization application.
4. Missing Supporting Documentation: Ensure that your doctor understands that all necessary medical records or documentation that substantiate the condition described are included with the form.

Conclusion

Form N-648 plays a crucial role in helping individuals with qualifying medical conditions obtain a waiver from the English and civics requirements for U.S. citizenship. To increase your chances of approval, it’s essential that the form be completed accurately, that you work with a licensed medical professional, and follow all USCIS guidelines carefully.

If you're seeking a medical exemption for your naturalization process, don't navigate it alone. Schedule an appointment with our experienced civil surgeon, Dr. Steven Wittenberg Gordon, to make your request for a medical waiver efficient, and stress-free.