If I have a green card, can I apply for U.S. citizenship while outside of the U.S. or am I allowed to leave while waiting for my citizenship to process?

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If I have a green card, can I apply for U.S. citizenship while outside of the U.S. or am I allowed to leave while waiting for my citizenship to process?

I have been a U.S. resident for 4.5 years, married to a citizen and mother of a citizen. I am planning an extended stay back in my home country and am

wondering whether to apply for citizenship just before I depart or while out of the U.S.

Asked on May 30, 2018 under Immigration Law, Georgia

Answers:

SB Member California Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney

Answered 5 years ago | Contributor

You cannot file for naturalization w hile you are out of the country and, moreover, once you file, you have to be living in the US.  You can go on a brief vacation/trip but you must be residing in the US at the time of filing and must show you've been residing for the 90 days prior to filing.


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