Naturalisation by residence in the United States (2026)

Last reviewed: 9 October 2026

In short: Naturalisation needs five years of continuous residence as a permanent resident, with physical presence for at least half of that time. Applicants must show an understanding of English and knowledge of US history and government. The language level on the CEFR scale and the renunciation rules are not verified.

RuleWhat applies
Years of residence requiredOrdinary naturalisation by residence5 years [1]
Shortened residence periodsOrdinary naturalisation by residenceThree years of continuous residence for the spouse of a US citizen who has lived in marital union with the citizen spouse for those three years (8 U.S.C. 1430(a)). No residence period for people with one year of honourable service in the US armed forces who apply while serving or within six months after service (8 U.S.C. 1439(a)). [2]
Language level requiredOrdinary naturalisation by residence⚠ Not yet verified
Integration or civic knowledge testOrdinary naturalisation by residenceYes [3]
Giving up previous nationalityOrdinary naturalisation by residence⚠ Not yet verified

Notes

  • The applicant must have lived continuously in the United States as a permanent resident for five years, been physically present for at least half of that time (30 months), and lived for at least three months in the state or district where the application is filed. Absences of more than six months but less than one year can break continuity unless the applicant shows no abandonment of residence; absences of one year or more break it.
  • This lists the two main cases in the statute. Other special categories exist, for example surviving family of service members and some employees abroad.
  • The language requirement does not apply to people over 50 with 20 years, or over 55 with 15 years, as a permanent resident. A medically determinable impairment can exempt a person from the English and the history and government requirements.

Sources

  1. U.S. Government Publishing Office (govinfo.gov): 8 U.S.C. 1427 - Requirements of naturalization (United States Code, 2023 Edition) (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
  2. U.S. Government Publishing Office (govinfo.gov): 8 U.S.C. 1430 - Married persons and employees of certain nonprofit organizations (United States Code, 2023 Edition) (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
  3. U.S. Government Publishing Office (govinfo.gov): 8 U.S.C. 1423 - Requirements as to understanding the English language, history, principles and form of government of the United States (United States Code, 2023 Edition) (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources

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General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.