USCIS Updates to Form N-648. Medical Certification for Disability Exceptions

Summary of USCIS Policy Guidance on Form N-648 – Issued June 13, 2025

On June 13, 2025, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issued updated policy guidance aimed at strengthening the integrity of the review process for Form N-648, Medical Certification for Disability Exceptions. The new guidance places increased emphasis on verifying the accuracy and legitimacy of medical certifications to prevent fraud and abuse within the naturalization process.

Key highlights of the guidance include:

• USCIS will now scrutinize Form N-648 submissions more closely, particularly focusing on identifying fraudulent or false medical certifications.

• A medical professional must clearly explain how the applicant’s physical, developmental, or mental impairment directly prevents them from fulfilling the English and/or civics requirements for naturalization. Merely having a disability is not enough.

• The disability or impairment must be medically determinable and last (or be expected to last) at least 12 months.

• Submitting multiple Forms N-648 concurrently (e.g., from different doctors or for the same applicant) may raise red flags and could prompt further investigation or delay.

This measure reflects USCIS’s commitment to ensuring that only those who genuinely qualify for disability exceptions under U.S. naturalization law benefit from them.

Disclaimer: This summary is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Readers are encouraged to consult with an immigration attorney or qualified legal representative regarding their specific case or concerns.