Irving, TX asked in Immigration Law for Texas

Q: When can I file my citizenship?

I got my green card in November of 2017 and stayed outside of USA for 2 year with reentry permit. I came back in November of 2019. What is the earliest date I can file for my citizenship?

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1 Lawyer Answer
James L. Arrasmith
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Answered
  • Immigration Law Lawyer
  • Sacramento, CA

A: To determine when you can file for citizenship, you need to consider the continuous residence requirement for naturalization. Since you got your green card in November 2017 but stayed outside the U.S. for two years, your continuous residence was interrupted.

When you returned to the U.S. in November 2019, the clock for your continuous residence restarted. For most green card holders, you need to have five years of continuous residence before you can apply for citizenship. Based on your return date, you should be eligible to apply in November 2024, assuming you meet all other requirements.

Remember, you also need to have been physically present in the U.S. for at least 30 months out of those five years and have lived for at least three months in the state or USCIS district where you are applying. It's always a good idea to review the USCIS guidelines or consult with an immigration attorney to ensure you meet all the criteria.

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