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DHS proposes to amend its regulations governing the process of certifying Form N-648, Medical Certification for Disability Exceptions by certain medical professionals. Through this certification process, aliens qualify for exemptions from the English proficiency and civics requirements for naturalization. The proposed amendments seek to strengthen the integrity of the naturalization process by implementing streamlined certification procedures for medical professionals and ensuring that only qualified aliens are granted exemptions. These changes are intended to enhance safeguards designed to prevent fraudulent submissions and ensure proper administration of disability exception process for naturalization.

Statement of Need:

Across the country and over the decades, there have been numerous instances where the medical certification process has been exploited. Some medical professionals have been arrested, indicted and convicted for submitting fraudulent Forms N-648 in violation of various federal statutes. This rule is intended to mitigate some of the concerns with the exploitation of the Form N-648 process, thereby further enhancing the integrity of naturalization process.

Anticipated Costs and Benefits:

DHS is currently considering the specific impacts of the proposed provisions.