Kenyans in America: Who Can Become US Citizens Without English Test?

Older immigrants in the United States who meet certain age and residency requirements can now apply for naturalisation without taking the English language test, under exemptions confirmed by US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

The exemptions, commonly known as “50/20” and “55/15”, apply to eligible permanent residents based on their age and the length of time they have held a green card. The 50/20 rule covers applicants aged 50 or older who have been lawful permanent residents for at least 20 years. 

The 55/15 rule applies to those aged 55 or older who have held permanent resident status for at least 15 years. Applicants aged 65 or older who have been permanent residents for at least 20 years receive additional consideration. They are exempt from the English language requirement and are eligible for special consideration in the civics test.

The exemptions do not remove the citizenship test altogether. Applicants must still demonstrate knowledge of US history and government by taking the civics test.

Those who qualify for the age-based exemptions may take the civics test in their native language with the assistance of an interpreter. 

This option may be particularly useful for immigrant communities, including Kenyans who have lived in the US for many years but have limited English proficiency. USCIS also provides a separate exemption for applicants whose medical conditions prevent them from meeting the English or civics requirements. 

They may submit Form N-648, the Medical Certification for Disability Exceptions, completed by a licensed medical professional. Depending on the applicant’s circumstances, the exemption may cover one or both parts of the test.

The measures provide older permanent residents with an alternative route through parts of the naturalisation process while retaining the requirement to demonstrate knowledge of US history and government. For long-term residents, the exemptions can reduce the language-related barriers involved in applying for US citizenship.