7/8/2015
USCIS Provides Accommodations for Disabilities
Individuals often require an American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter, or other special accommodation when they appear in person at USCIS, yet USCIS field officers report that many do not take advantage of this assistance. This may be due to applicants being unaware of the procedure for requesting such accommodations.
USCIS contracts with an outside company to provide needed assistance to people with disabilities, so as to make all programs, activities and facilities accessible to everyone. A disability is considered anything that would prevent an applicant from being able to participate in the immigration process. Examples of USCIS accommodations include permitting those with limited hand use to take tests orally; providing a sign language interpreter at appointments or USCIS sponsored events; even visiting you at home or hospital if your disability prevents you from being able to travel to a USCIS location for your interview. All domestic USCIS facilities are accessible to individuals with physical disabilities, therefore you do not need an accommodation if your only concern is access to the facility.
If you require an accommodation due to a disability that would prevent you from participating in your USCIS visit, please contact:
National Customer Service Center: 1-800-375-5283
You must call NCSC each time you have an appointment. It is important to call even if you stated on your application that an accommodation is required. If your request for an accommodation is denied, and you believe this is in error, you should call the NCSC again.
Accommodations are offered for all types of appointment, including ASC, InfoPass, interview, or naturalization ceremony. You may also request an accommodation to attend a USCIS public event such as a town hall meeting.
