Question 1

Does a trip outside the US break continuous residence?

Accepted Answer

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. A continuous absence of 365 full days or more breaks continuous residence under the ordinary rules unless an approved Form N-470 or another exception applies.

Question 2

How much physical presence do I need for citizenship?

Accepted Answer

Under the 5-year rule, the ordinary requirement is at least 30 months of physical presence during the 5 years before filing. Under the 3-year spousal rule, it is at least 18 months during the 3 years before filing. This estimator does not determine which entered days fall inside that window.

Question 3

What counts as continuous residence?

Accepted Answer

Continuous residence means you kept the United States as your home for the whole statutory period without a disqualifying absence. Long trips abroad are the most common way it gets broken.

Estimate your full days outside the United States