U.S. Naturalization Through Marriage: The 3-Year Shortcut

The general rule for obtaining American citizenship requires five years of permanent residency. However, for those married to a United States citizen, the law provides a major exception: the possibility of applying for U.S. Naturalization after only three years.

This "shortcut" is a valuable opportunity, but it imposes very strict cohabitation requirements that you must master before applying.

1. Eligibility Requirements for the Reduced Timeline

To benefit from the three-year timeline instead of five, you must meet specific cumulative criteria at the time of filing your application for U.S. Naturalization:

• Green Card Ownership: You must have been a permanent resident for at least three years to the day.

• Valid Marriage: You must be legally married to a U.S. citizen, and your spouse must have held American nationality for at least three years.

• Marital Union: You must prove that you have been living in "marital union" (under the same roof) with your U.S. citizen spouse for the three years immediately preceding your application.

  
  

2. The Separation or Divorce Trap

This is the point where the administration is most vigilant. For U.S. Naturalization based on marriage, simply being married "on paper" is not enough.

• If you no longer live with your spouse (de facto separation), even if you are not divorced, you generally lose the right to the three-year shortcut.

• If your spouse loses their citizenship or passes away before your interview, you will likely have to revert to the classic five-year rule.

  
  

3. A Reinforced Evidence File

Because you are benefiting from a time exception, USCIS will examine your shared life with particular attention. Your U.S. Naturalization file must include solid evidence of your shared life over the last three years:

• Joint bank accounts and joint tax returns (IRS transcripts).

• Lease agreements or property titles in both names.

• Birth certificates of children born to the union, if applicable.

  
  

The Bottom Line

U.S. Naturalization through marriage is the fastest path to citizenship, but it is far from a simple formality. It requires documenting the stability and sincerity of your union until the day of the Oath of Allegiance.

A premature application or insufficient evidence can lead to a costly denial. The Deltin Law Firm assists you in auditing your eligibility and preparing an indisputable file of evidence to secure your citizenship. Contact us for an analysis of your family situation.