U.S. Citizenship Through Marriage: Requirements and Process

U.S Citizenship Through Marriage

In U.S. immigration law, unique provisions allow permanent residents applying for citizenship through marriage to submit their application after a shorter period of three years. While most permanent residents typically need to reside in the United States for a minimum of five years before applying for citizenship, the spouse of a U.S. citizen residing in the U.S. may be eligible to file Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, based on their marriage after just three years.

Outlined in the Immigration and Naturalization Act (INA §319(a)), these special rules pertain to spouses of U.S. citizens seeking citizenship. To qualify, the spouse must have continuously resided in the U.S. for at least three years immediately preceding the naturalization application filing date.

Additionally, they must have been in marital union with their U.S. citizen spouse for a minimum of three years before filing.

U.S. citizenship through marriage is a viable path to naturalization in the United States. Permanent residents can apply for citizenship after three years of marriage to a U.S. citizen, provided they meet specific criteria.

Key Requirements for U.S. Citizenship Through Marriage

Age and Legal Status:
- Applicants must be 18 years or older at the time of application.
- Legal permanent residency is a prerequisite for filing the N-400 application.
Marital Duration:
- Marriage to a U.S. citizen must have lasted at least three years prior to applying.
Continuous Residency:
- Applicants should have continuously resided in the U.S. as a permanent resident for a minimum of three years from application filing to naturalization.
Physical Presence:
- Presence in the U.S. for at least 548 days (18 months) within the three-year application processing period.
Residence in USCIS District:
- Reside within the USCIS district or state for at least three months before applying.
Language Proficiency:
- Demonstrate proficiency in the English language, including reading, writing, and speaking basic words.
Understanding U.S. Civics:
- Exhibit knowledge of U.S. history, principles, and forms of government.
Moral Conduct:
- Maintain good moral conduct for a minimum of three years leading up to naturalization.
Allegiance and Commitment:
- Show allegiance and commitment to the well-being of the United States.

By meeting these requirements and successfully navigating the application process, spouses of U.S. citizens can achieve U.S. citizenship through marriage. Stay informed and take the necessary steps towards becoming a naturalized U.S. citizen.

U.S. Citizenship Through Marriage: Requirements and Process