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Can immigrants become citizens without mastering English?

On Behalf of | Jul 28, 2024 | Citizenship and Naturalization |

Immigrants hoping to integrate into society in the United States of America need to be able to interact with other people effectively. The ability to speak and understand English is therefore very important for immigrants living in the United States.

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) offers visas and even green cards to people who do not speak English. However, language skills become important when immigrants want to become United States citizens.

The mandatory interview during the naturalization process includes an English language test. Immigrants have to prove that they can understand written and spoken English. They also have to prove that they can speak and write in English. Do those rules apply universally to every immigrant who wants to become a citizen?

There are English language exemptions available

English is a very difficult language to master. Many people who grow up in the United States struggle with the nuances of English grammar. A large number of irregular verbs and words adopted from other languages make English very hard to learn.

The part of the brain that learns language is most active when people are young. Older adults may find it far more difficult than children and teenagers to learn the English language. The USCIS takes that into consideration for the purposes of naturalization.

Currently, there are two age-related exemptions available. If an immigrant seeking naturalization is 50 years old or older, they can potentially request an exemption. If they have remained in the United States for at least 20 years legally, they may qualify for a language test exemption.

They can even take the Civics test in the language they speak proficiently. The rule is a bit more lenient for older immigrants. Those who are 55 years old or older only need 15 years of lawful residence in the United States to qualify for an exemption.

Individuals assisting their parents and older immigrants may feel more confident about pursuing naturalization after applying for an English language test exemption. There are also special rules allowing accommodations for those with disabling medical conditions during naturalization testing.

Learning the rules for naturalization can help those living in the United States become citizens. Naturalization expands the rights and protections of those already legally living in the United States.

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