Trips Over 6 Months and Naturalization

Why a Trip Over 6 Months Matters

During the statutory period, a continuous absence of more than 180 but fewer than 365 full days creates a rebuttable presumption that continuous residence was broken. This is not an automatic denial. USCIS may also review multiple shorter absences.

Evidence USCIS May Review

USCIS considers all relevant evidence. Its listed examples include whether U.S. employment continued or the applicant did not work abroad, whether immediate family remained in the United States, and whether the applicant kept full access to a U.S. home.

• Home and employment records. Records showing continued U.S. employment and full access to an owned or leased U.S. home may be relevant.
• Tax and family records. Tax records and evidence that immediate family remained in the United States may also be relevant.

Interview Questions to Expect

The officer may ask why you traveled, where you stayed, whether you worked abroad, and what connections you kept in the United States.

When to Get Guidance

If you had one or more trips over 6 months, consider speaking with an immigration attorney or accredited representative before filing or before the interview.