Question: I want to file my citizenship application early based on my being married to my U.S. citizen husband so that I can sponsor my mom. My husband was born in the U.S. we are still happily married (expecting our second son in December) and I just received my permanent green card. I’m just a little confused about when I am eligible. I have been a U.S. Resident since January of 2006. Thanks so much.

Answer: That’s a great question. The basic guide is called the 3/3/3 rule: meaning that in order to apply for your Naturalization early based upon your marriage to a U.S. Citizen, you need to meet the following three requirements: 1) Have been a U.S. Resident for at least three years AND 2) Have been married to a U.S. Citizen for at least three years full years (continue to be in a valid marriage living together) AND 3) Your U.S. Citizen spouse must have been a U.S. Citizen for at least three full years. However, you are allowed to apply for Naturalization 90 days before you have actually been a U.S. Resident for three years (2 years & 9 months.). The calculations must be exact, since applying even one day earlier can cause a case to be denied and result in loss of the entire application fee of $675.

Based upon your marriage to a native born U.S. Citizen and U.S. Residency for over three years, you are likely eligible to apply for your Naturalization now