USCIS Tinkers With Disability Exception Form Again
Published Date: 6/5/2026
Notice
Summary
USCIS is updating the form used to certify medical disabilities for immigration exceptions. This affects applicants needing special medical consideration and asks for public feedback by July 6, 2026. The update aims to keep the process clear and efficient without adding extra costs or delays.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Form N-648 Revision and Burden Estimates
USCIS is revising Form N-648, the Medical Certification for Disability Exceptions used with the Application for Naturalization (Form N-400) to claim an exception under section 312(a) for English and/or civics requirements. USCIS estimates 78,557 respondents, with an estimated 2.4 hours per medical-professional response and 8.0 hours per applicant response, a total annual burden of 816,993 hours, and an estimated annual cost burden of $71,508,866. Public comments are accepted through July 6, 2026.
Who Can Certify N-648
USCIS states that only medical doctors, doctors of osteopathy, or clinical psychologists licensed to practice in the United States are authorized to certify Form N-648 for disability exceptions to the English and/or civics requirements. By certifying, the clinician affirms the applicant cannot meet those requirements because of a physical, developmental, or mental impairment.
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