When Can I Apply for U.S. Citizenship?
Lawful permanent residents of the United States, or green card holders, can apply for Naturalization after they meet the minimum criteria for filing. The criteria for applying for citizenship and becoming a citizen will differ depending upon how a person obtained lawful permanent residency. Several of the requirements for naturalization are time-sensitive, so it is important to understand them and not apply to become a U.S. citizen too early. Continuous Resident In order to naturalize, applicants must show that they have continually resided within the United States. This means that they have maintained a residence, their primary home, within the country. Short absences will not break a continuous residence, but extended absences may. Applicants who received their green cards through their marriage to a U.S. citizen who is still married to their U.S. citizen spouse must show that they have continuously resided in the United States for three years prior to filing for naturalization. Most...