Fraternity-Testvériség, 1959 (37. évfolyam, 1-12. szám)
1959-09-01 / 9. szám
FRATERNITY 9 IMMIGRATION AND NATURALIZATION WILL I NEED TO KNOW ENGLISH TO PASS MY NATURALIZATION EXAM? Question: I came to the United States five years ago as an immigrant and would now like to become a citizen. However, my English is very poor and I am afraid I cannot pass the examination. I have heard that, older people — I am 62 years old — do not have to meet the same requirements as to knowing English. Is this true? Answer: Only in part. The naturalization law requires that a person, in order to be naturalized, have an understanding of the English language, including an ability to read, write and speak words in common usage. The only exceptions are persons physically unable to comply with this requirement and persons who were over 50 years of age on December 24, 1952, and who have been living in the United States for periods totaling at least 20 years. It is suggested, however, that you study English, apply for naturalization and take the examination. Probably you will pass. The law specifically provides that no extraordinary or unreasonable tests shall be imposed, that the requirements relating to an applicant’s ability to read and write English shall be met, if he or she can read or write simple words and phrases in ordinary usage. CAN I STAY IN THE UNITED STATES AFTER MY VISITOR'S VISA FROM A COMMUNIST COUNTRY EXPIRES? Question: I came to the United States on a visitor’s visa six months ago from a Communist country. My visitor’s visa has expired, but I do not wish to return to my country because I am opposed to Communism and want to live in a democratic country. I have been told that I cannot remain here because I cannot receive a quota number, my quota being oversubscribed. Is there anything which can be done to help me? Answer: At present, there is no special legislative relief for refugees with oversubscribed quotas. If you feel very strongly and decide to overstay your visa, you will undoubtedly be declared deportable. At that point you could apply for a stay of deportation on the ground that you would be physically persecuted if returned to the country of your nationality. You should keep in mind, however, that before such a stay is granted, the law requires that you actually prove that you would be physically persecuted, something which is very hard to prove, indeed, unless you are a well known anti-Communist. If you fail in the proof, you would be deported and this might create bigger problems for you at home. You should not take such steps, however, without having discussed your problem with an expert in the field of immigration.
