Becoming a U.S. citizen through naturalization takes time and careful preparation. One key requirement is proving continuous residence in the United States. Understanding this rule can help you avoid delays.
What is continuous residence?
Continuous residence means living in the U.S. without long absences. Most applicants must show they have lived in the U.S. for at least five years before applying. If you have married a U.S. citizen, this period is three years. During this time, you should not take long trips outside the U.S. because that could break your residence requirement.
Trips shorter than six months usually do not affect your continuous residence. However, if you leave for more than six months but less than a year, immigration officials may question whether you still live in the U.S. If you are gone for a year or longer, you may need to start the waiting period over.
How can you prove continuous residence?
To prove continuous residence, you need documents that show you have lived in the U.S. the entire time, such as:
- Tax returns: Filing U.S. taxes for each year you have lived in the country proves you were present.
- Employment records: Pay stubs, work schedules, and employment verification letters can confirm that you worked in the U.S. during the required time.
- Lease or mortgage documents: Rental agreements, mortgage statements, or utility bills with your name and address help prove where you lived.
- School records: If you or your children attended school, enrollment records can show that you were in the U.S.
- Medical records: Doctor visits, hospital records, and prescriptions can help prove your presence in the country.
- Travel records: Keeping copies of airline tickets, passport stamps, and entry/exit records can help show how often you traveled.
If you took a long trip outside the U.S., be ready to explain why. You may need extra documents, such as proof of a job or family ties in the U.S., to show that you did not abandon your residence. Taking these steps can ensure a smooth application process.