The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has issued new policy guidance aimed at tightening the review process for Form N-648, the Medical Certification for Disability Exceptions, used by naturalization applicants. The updated policy, announced on June 13, 2025, seeks to uphold the integrity of the naturalization process by curbing fraud and ensuring only eligible applicants receive exemptions from language and civics requirements.
Under standard immigration requirements, applicants for U.S. citizenship must demonstrate basic proficiency in English and an understanding of U.S. civics. However, those with medically documented physical or developmental disabilities or mental impairments lasting at least 12 months may request an exception by submitting Form N-648, completed by a licensed medical professional.
The new USCIS policy now mandates that medical professionals clearly explain how a disability specifically prevents an applicant from meeting the English and civics requirements. The presence of a disability alone is no longer sufficient to justify the waiver.
USCIS also signaled stricter scrutiny of applicants who submit multiple Form N-648s within a short period, which may suggest attempts to manipulate the system. The agency has previously reported widespread misuse of the disability exception, undermining trust in the naturalization process and allowing ineligible individuals to obtain U.S. citizenship.
“This policy update is designed to protect the naturalization process while ensuring that individuals with genuine medical needs continue to receive fair and appropriate consideration,” USCIS stated. The agency emphasized that the changes are especially important for immigrant communities, including Caribbean nationals, who often navigate complex immigration requirements when applying for citizenship.
The updated guidance is now part of the USCIS Policy Manual, Volume 12, and aligns with Executive Orders 14148 and 14159, which prioritize the protection of U.S. institutions and immigration systems. The new rules take immediate effect and apply to all Form N-648 submissions and naturalization applications filed on or after June 13, 2025.
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