CIP Naturalization & Citizenship

Question 1

What is the minimum continuous residence period required for most lawful permanent residents to qualify for naturalization?

Accepted Answer

5 years

Answer

INA § 316(a) requires most LPRs to maintain continuous residence in the U.S. for at least 5 years immediately preceding the filing of Form N-400.

Question 2

Under what condition is the continuous residence requirement for naturalization reduced to 3 years?

Accepted Answer

The applicant is married to and living with a U.S. citizen

Answer

INA § 319(a) allows a 3-year continuous residence period for LPRs who have been married to and living in marital union with a U.S. citizen spouse for all 3 years.

Question 3

What is the minimum physical presence requirement for a naturalization applicant with a 5-year continuous residence requirement?

Accepted Answer

30 months

Answer

INA § 316(a) requires at least 30 months of physical presence within the 5 years immediately preceding the filing date, which equals half of the 5-year period.

Question 4

Which USCIS form must a lawful permanent resident file to apply for naturalization?

Accepted Answer

Form N-400

Answer

Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, is the form filed with USCIS by eligible lawful permanent residents seeking to become U.S. citizens.

Question 5

Under the '50/20' exception, which naturalization applicants are exempt from the English language requirement?

Accepted Answer

Applicants who are 50 or older and have been LPRs for at least 20 years

Answer

Under INA § 312(b)(2), applicants who are at least 50 years old and have been LPRs for at least 20 years (the '50/20' rule) are exempt from the English language requirement.

CIP - Certified Immigration Paralegal Practice Test

CIP - Certified Immigration Paralegal Practice Test

CIP Naturalization & Citizenship