US Citizenship and Immigration Services launched a new version of its online civics course to help lawful permanent residents study for their naturalization tests – this time, with Spanish subtitles.
The already-existing English version helps people seeking to become naturalized citizens study for the required civics test, which covers “basic U.S. government and history topics.”
According to USCIS: "The civics test is normally conducted in English; however, certain applicants may be eligible to take the civics test in the language of their choice due to age and time as a permanent resident, a disability, or other exceptions and accommodations."
The USCIS website explains:
You Are Exempt From The English Language Requirement, But Are Still Required To Take The Civics Test If You Are:
- Age 50 or older at the time of filing for naturalization and have lived as a permanent resident (green card holder) in the United States for 20 years (commonly referred to as the “50/20” exception).
OR- Age 55 or older at the time of filing for naturalization and have lived as a permanent resident in the United States for 15 years (commonly referred to as the “55/15” exception).
So according to the federal government, 20 years spent living in the United States isn’t enough time to have learned English.