What unique requirements exist for spouses of U.S. citizens applying for the N-400?

Spouses of U.S. citizens do indeed have a unique requirement when applying for U.S. citizenship through the N-400 application. They may apply for naturalization after three years of permanent residency, rather than the standard five years required for other applicants. This shorter residency requirement acknowledges the connection and commitment between the U.S. citizen and their spouse, making the process more accessible for those who are married to citizens.

The other options, while they may sound plausible, do not align with the requirements for spouses of citizens applying for citizenship. For instance, showing proof of citizenship is necessary for the U.S. citizen spouse but not a requirement for the applicant themselves. Exemption from background checks is not a provision made for any applicants, as thorough background checks are a critical aspect of the naturalization process for all individuals. Finally, having children born in the U.S. is not a prerequisite for a spouse of a U.S. citizen to apply for naturalization; many choose to apply without any children.