Find the earliest date you can file Form N-400 for US citizenship, and check your physical presence and continuous residence.
Loading the tool…
The main N-400 requirements
| 5-year path | 3-year path (married to a US citizen) | |
|---|---|---|
| Time as a permanent resident | 5 years | 3 years |
| Physical presence in the US | 30 months (913 days) | 18 months (548 days) |
| Early filing | Up to 90 days before | Up to 90 days before |
| Time in your state or USCIS district | 3 months | 3 months |
Continuous residence
- A trip of more than 6 months but less than a year is presumed to break continuous residence, unless you can show strong ties, such as keeping your US job, home and tax filings.
- A trip of a year or more breaks it, unless you got an approved Form N-470.
Example
If your green card date is 6 January 2022 on the 5-year path, your 5-year anniversary is 6 January 2027 and you can file from 8 October 2026.
You’ll also need to pass the English and civics tests at your interview and show good moral character.
Frequently asked questions
When can I apply for US citizenship?
Up to 90 days before your 5-year green card anniversary, or 3 years if married to and living with a US citizen.
How many days do I need in the US?
At least 913 days in the last 5 years, or 548 days on the 3-year path.
Does a 7-month trip break continuous residence?
It’s presumed to, but you can rebut that with evidence of strong ties to the US.
Do the days I leave and return count?
Yes. USCIS counts days you depart and return as days in the US.
Sources
Last updated: