Requirements for U.S. citizenship (N-400 naturalization)
Before you start studying for the test, it helps to know whether you already meet the requirements to apply for citizenship. Here they are in plain language. This is informational material, not legal advice: for your specific case, consult a licensed attorney or accredited representative.
The general requirements
Most people apply for naturalization under the general 5-year rule. To qualify, you usually need to:
- Be 18 or older when you file Form N-400.
- Be a lawful permanent resident (hold a Green Card) for at least 5 years.
- Have maintained continuous residence in the U.S. during those 5 years.
- Have been physically present in the U.S. for at least 30 months (half) of those 5 years.
- Have lived for at least 3 months in the state or USCIS district where you file.
- Show good moral character.
- Know basic English (speaking, reading, and writing) and civics, unless you qualify for an exception.
- Be willing to take the Oath of Allegiance to the United States.
What if you're married to a citizen?
There's a shorter, 3-year rule. If you're a permanent resident, married to a U.S. citizen, and you've lived together for the last 3 years, you can apply at 3 years instead of 5. In that case the physical-presence requirement drops to 18 months. Your spouse must have been a citizen for that entire period.
Continuous residence vs. physical presence
These are two different requirements that are often confused:
- Continuous residence: that the U.S. remains your permanent home. A trip abroad of 6 months or more can break it.
- Physical presence: the total days you were actually inside the U.S. It must be at least half of the required period.
💡 If you take long trips outside the country, keep dates and documents for each departure and entry. It's one of the first things the officer reviews to confirm you meet these two requirements.
Good moral character
USCIS reviews your conduct, usually over the last 5 years (or 3 if you apply through marriage). Certain crimes, failing to file taxes, or not paying child support can affect it. Always answer honestly on the N-400: hiding information is usually worse than the thing itself.
English and civics
You'll need to show basic English and pass the civics test during the interview. There are exceptions based on age and years of residence, plus medical waivers for people with a disability. We cover them in detail in our guide to the test exceptions.
Already qualify? The test is your next step
If you meet the requirements, what comes next is filing the N-400 and preparing for the interview and test. Start studying the moment you file: you'll have weeks to arrive confident. Lexi builds you a 5-minute daily path with the official questions and a voice-based mock interview, free.