Citizenship if you are married to a U.S. citizen
The main requirements for naturalizing under the three-year rule, including residence, marital union, and common risk points.
If you are married to a U.S. citizen, you may be able to apply for naturalization after three years as a lawful permanent resident instead of waiting the usual five years.
Main requirements for the three-year rule
USCIS generally expects all of these:
- At least three years as a lawful permanent resident
- At least three years married to and living with the same U.S. citizen spouse
- Your spouse has been a U.S. citizen for those same three years
- At least 18 months of physical presence in the United States during that period
- At least three months of residence in the state or USCIS district where you file
- Good moral character
What if we separate or divorce?
If you are no longer living in marital union with the U.S. citizen spouse, or if the marriage ends before naturalization is approved, the three-year path may no longer apply. In that situation, some applicants need to wait and qualify under the standard five-year rule instead.
Is the test easier under the marriage-based rule?
No. The English and civics requirements are generally the same. The faster timeline changes the filing eligibility, not the test itself.
Can I file early?
Many applicants on the three-year path can still file up to 90 days early, but the date calculation matters. Use official USCIS guidance or get help if you are unsure.
Official page:
If you are using the three-year rule, start studying early so your interview preparation keeps pace with your paperwork. Download CiudadanoUSA and build the habit now.