The Form N-648 is a form used as part of a request for a waiver of the English and/or Civics requirements based on a medical disability.  In addition to the applicant or his/her representative, a qualified physician completes this form to certify that the applicant has a medical disability.  The USCIS has become wary of certain waiver applications because it has found instances of fraud.  This concern has led the agency to bar certain doctors from participating in the N-648 application process.  To obtain a waiver of requirements for an applicant, the qualified physician must file from N-648 with testimony concerning the particular illness, the etiology of the illness, the length of the illnesses, the treatments for the illness, and his or her qualifications as a physician. The physician also must explain why the disability prevents the applicant from learning or demonstrating knowledge of English and/or Civics.  Common illnesses that may serve as a basis for a waiver include amnesia, psychiatric illnesses (chronic depression, mania, bi-polar, and schizophrenia), dementia, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).  Contrary to the beliefs of many immigration attorneys and some naturalization officers, a qualified doctor does not need to be a psychologist or a psychiatrist.  So long as the doctor has experience in the relevant field of medicine, such as an emergency room doctor who has training and experience in psychological illnesses, the doctor may be qualified to complete the Form N-648.  Additionally, some illnesses, such as a stroke or terminal cancer, may serve as a basis for a waiver because the effects of treatments or medications used to combat the illness may impair a person’s mental performance.  If you believe you may qualify for a waiver, you should consult an immigration attorney with extensive experience in medical disability waivers because the requirements are strenuous.

 Should you have any questions regarding your immigration matters, please contact the experienced immigration attorneys of Smith & Garg at 562-590-7300 or call our toll-free number at 877-517-4275.  You can also submit an inquiry through our Long Beach Immigration Online Inquiry.