Oath Ceremony Accommodations
Accommodations for the Oath of Allegiance
A disability or medical impairment may make it difficult for some applicants to take the Oath of Allegiance at the oath ceremony, which completes the naturalization process. The table below lists examples of accommodations to the Oath of Allegiance. The paragraphs that follow the table provide further guidance on each accommodation. Some applicants may qualify for a waiver of the Oath of Allegiance.
| Accommodation | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Simplifying language for assent to the oath | Applicants with disabilities may need simpler language to show they assent to the oath |
| Expedited scheduling for oath | Applicants with disabilities may be unable to attend a later ceremony because of their condition |
| Providing sign language interpreter at oath | Deaf or hard of hearing applicants may need a sign language interpreter to participate in the ceremony |
| Off-site administration of oath | Applicants with disabilities may be unable to attend the court or field office ceremony because of their condition |
Simplifying Language for Assent to the Oath
A United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) officer may question the applicant about the Oath of Allegiance in a clear, slow manner and in simplified language if the applicant presents difficulty understanding questions regarding the oath. This approach allows the applicant to understand and assent to the Oath of Allegiance and understand that they are becoming a U.S. citizen.
Expedited Scheduling for Oath
A USCIS field office should expedite administration of the Oath of Allegiance for an applicant who is unable to attend a ceremony at a later time because of their medical impairment. The expedited process may include a ceremony on the same day or an off-site visit.
Providing Sign Language Interpreter at Oath
A USCIS field office should provide a sign language interpreter for an applicant who is deaf or hard of hearing or permit the applicant to use their own interpreter during an administrative oath ceremony or for a judicial ceremony where a court is unable to provide a sign language interpreter.
Off-Site Administration of Oath
A USCIS field office should administer the Oath of Allegiance immediately following the off-site examination for an applicant who is unable to attend because of their medical condition. Some applicants may have appeared at the field office for the examination, but due to a deteriorating condition are unable to attend the oath ceremony. In such cases, an off-site visit may be scheduled to administer the Oath of Allegiance.
Learn More About USCIS Accommodations
Please alert a Project Citizenship staff member if you need an oath ceremony accommodation when you receive your USCIS notice. This accommodation is separate from an oath ceremony waiver.