For those married to a U.S. citizen, what is the permanent residency duration requirement for the N-400 application?

The requirement for permanent residency duration for individuals married to a U.S. citizen is three years. This provision is in place to allow spouses of U.S. citizens to apply for naturalization sooner than those who have had a permanent residency status for a longer period.

This shorter duration reflects the significance of the marital relationship and the understanding that spouses of U.S. citizens may already have stronger ties to the United States due to their relationship. After three years of being a permanent resident, the applicant must still meet additional criteria, such as demonstrating good moral character, passing English and civics tests, and meeting residency criteria during that period before they can be naturalized.

The options suggesting longer periods, such as five years, two years, or four years, do not align with the stipulated time frame for those married to U.S. citizens, which further underscores the special provision designed for these applicants.