Can A Green Card Holder Seek Citizenship Before 5 Years?

When it comes to obtaining U.S. citizenship, the timeline for green card holders depends on their specific circumstances. In general, green card holders can apply for citizenship after living in the United States for five years, which is often referred to as the “five-year rule.” However, if you have a green card through marriage to a U.S. citizen, you may be eligible to apply for citizenship after just three years, known as the “three-year rule.” This shorter timeframe is applicable to those who meet certain criteria related to their marital status. So, in essence, the waiting period to apply for U.S. citizenship can vary, with a three-year option for those in a marriage-based green card scenario and a standard five-year period for other green card holders.

“How long you need to reside in the United States to become a citizen depends on various factors. Generally, you can qualify for naturalization if you are at least 18 years old and have held permanent resident status for a specific duration, which is typically 5 years. However, there is an exception where you may be eligible after just 3 years if you are married to a U.S. citizen. It’s important to note that meeting all other eligibility requirements is essential to pursue U.S. citizenship.”