English is a difficult language to learn. It takes many words from other languages and integrates them into the English vocabulary. English also has many irregular verbs that do not follow standard conjugation rules.
People from other cultures often find the English language to be hard to understand and even more challenging to master. The need to prove English proficiency is often part of the naturalization process. Those who wish to become United States citizens must first pass a test showing that they can understand spoken and written English.
Can those who struggle with the English language still become citizens?
Older immigrants may qualify for exemptions
Learning a language is easiest while people are young and their brains are still malleable. It becomes harder as people age. Thankfully, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) extends English language testing exemptions to certain older adults.
At a typical naturalization interview, the entire process is in English. The immigrant seeking citizenship must prove that they can understand spoken English and speak proficiently. They must demonstrate the ability to read and write sentences in English. They also take an oral test in Civics. They answer questions about United States history and government in English.
Individuals who have been in the United States legally for years can potentially naturalize without taking an English language test. Those who are at least 50 years of age and who have legally been in the country for 20 years can qualify for an English language test exemption. Adults who are 55 or older can qualify for an exemption after 15 years in the country.
Those who qualify for an English language test exemption can ask to take the civics test in the language that they speak comfortably. The English language exemption can help those who have lived in the United States for years strengthen their legal protections. There are also accommodations available to make testing more accessible to immigrants with disabling medical conditions.
Learning more about naturalized citizenship can help people determine when they and their loved ones may be eligible for this opportunity. While learning English is often a smart decision for immigrants, difficulty learning English does not eliminate eligibility for citizenship.