I have been a lawful permanent resident for several years and want to apply for U.S. citizenship. How do I know if I meet the residency and physical presence requirements before filing Form N-400?

Most lawful permanent residents may apply for naturalization after five years of continuous residence. If you are married to and living with a U.S. citizen, you may qualify after three years. Continuous residence means you have maintained your primary home in the United States without long absences that disrupt eligibility. You must also meet physical presence requirements, meaning you were physically inside the United States for at least half of the required statutory period. Extended trips abroad may impact eligibility and should be carefully reviewed before filing.

Eligibility depends on maintaining continuous residence, meeting physical presence thresholds, and residing in the same USCIS district for at least three months prior to filing. Trips outside the United States longer than six months can create a presumption that continuous residence was interrupted. Before filing Form N-400, review your travel history carefully and ensure you meet all timing requirements to avoid delays or denials.