How early is it OK to apply for US citizenship?

[khalilhouri]

I will have completed five years as a PR in September of 2008. I know that the N-400 instructions documents says "..., you may apply for naturalization up to 90 days before you meet the ''continuous residence'' requirement.".

As the processing time is now much longer, should I apply earlier than that?

How early is it OK to apply?

[aleful]

khalil,
The instructions are clear, only 90 days before. It doen't matter that it may take longer now. They will not process it sooner, it's because you are close to your 5 years.

[USnoiva]

So does this mean that if you have been an LPR for 3 years and are still married to the same USC, and only left the country for 3 weeks during those 3 years as an LPR, then you can apply 90 days before the date you become an LPR for 3 years?
:shy:

[aleful]

USnoiva,
Of course!!! Continous presence means leaving for long periods of time, vacations are not included. In the N-400 you have to write down the dates that you left and where during the last 5 years, so remember. 3 weeks is considered vacation, but I you traveled 6 months every year, that would mean there was no continuos presence. Out of 5 years, you only live in the US 2 1/2 years. So that's fine, just as you can prove that you are married to the same person who petitioned you and that you have been a LPR for 3 years.

[Marie]

If you send your application in earlier than the 90 days, they will reject it.