Rep. Nadler Seeks Greater Fairness for Seniors Applying for Citizenship

“Senior Citizenship Act” Would Ease Some Burdens for Older Immigrants

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Jerrold Nadler (NY-08), Chair of the Judiciary Subcommittee on the Constitution, Civil Rights and Civil Liberties, today reintroduced H.R.5750, the Senior Citizenship Act.  That legislation would help ease some of the burdens for older immigrants seeking to become American citizens.

“Most immigrants come to America to seek a better life, and those who seek to become citizens do so out of a love for their new home,” said Rep. Nadler.  “We should help these people, especially the elderly, as their desire to become citizens at an older age is a testament to their commitment to America.”
 
Current law exempts people over 50 who have lived in the country for at least 20 years, and people over 55 who have lived in America for at least 15 years from the English literacy requirement for new citizens. However, this lengthy waiting period is often too great for older immigrants who have arrived more recently and speak little or no English.  In addition, in some cases, especially for individuals over 75, it can be extremely difficult to memorize facts and pass civics and history exams.  

Rep. Nadler’s Senior Citizenship Act would add a third exemption from the English literacy exam; amending the requirement so that any individual who is at least 65 and has been living in the U.S. for five years after their admission for permanent residence would not have to take the English literacy exam.  They would still be required to pass the civics and history exams, but this would be done in their native language.  

In addition, immigrants who are over 75 would be exempt from the history and civics requirement altogether.   However, immigrants who would be exempt from some or all exams would still be required to fulfill other requirements of citizenship, such as renouncing any foreign allegiance, and would be required to take the oath of allegiance to America and our Constitution.  

“Our main concern with older immigrants should not be whether they can memorize our history,” Rep. Nadler added.  “The issue is whether elderly immigrants, in seeking a better life here, are ready and prepared to accept the laws of our land.  Those that are willing to take that step, especially qualified seniors who are already living here, should be encouraged to become full citizens.”