What does “physical presence” mean in the context of the N-400?

In the context of the N-400 application for naturalization, "physical presence" specifically refers to the actual time an applicant has spent physically in the United States. This is a crucial factor in determining an applicant's eligibility for naturalization, as U.S. immigration law mandates that applicants must demonstrate a certain amount of physical presence in the country for a specified period leading up to their application.

This definition emphasizes the importance of the applicant's presence in the U.S., rather than merely symbolic or legal ties to the country. It underscores that citizenship requirements consider not only the intent to reside permanently but also the actual days spent within U.S. borders.

The other options focus on different aspects that, while related to the overall context of immigration, do not define physical presence. The address where an applicant lives pertains to residency requirements, the number of trips abroad relates to the applicant's travel history but does not quantify presence, and the citizenship of the applicant's parents concerns derivative citizenship issues that are separate from the concept of physical presence in naturalization applications.