Exceptions to the English and Civics Requirements for Naturalization
To be eligible for naturalization, an applicant must demonstrate an understanding of the English language and fundamentals of U.S. history. However, there are three important exemptions for English testing based on an applicant's age and time as a permanent resident (green card holder) as follows:
• If you are over 50 years old and have lived in the United States as a Permanent Resident (green card holder) for periods totaling at least 20 years, you do not have to take the English test. You do have to take the civics test in the language of your choice.
• If you are over 55 years old and have lived in the United States as a Permanent Resident (green card holder) for periods totaling at least 15 years, you do not have to take the English test. You do have to take the civics test in the language of your choice.
• If you are over 65 years old and have lived in the United States as a Permanent Resident (green card holder) for periods totaling at least 20 years, you do not have to take the English test. You do have to take the civics test in the language of your choice. Designated test questions have been selected for you to study and are identified within the list of 100 civics test questions, which can be found at http://www.uscis.gov under Education and Resources.
To qualify for one of the above exemptions, your time as a permanent resident does not have to be continuous.
