Why is it important to disclose all travel outside the U.S. on the N-400?

Disclosing all travel outside the U.S. on the N-400 is crucial because it demonstrates adherence to the continuous residence requirement for naturalization. This requirement states that an applicant must have maintained a continuous physical presence in the U.S. for a specified period before applying. If an applicant has spent an extended time outside the country, it could be interpreted as abandoning their residence, which can lead to denial of the application. Providing a complete travel history helps the USCIS assess whether the applicant meets this essential criterion for naturalization. Proper disclosure allows for a transparent evaluation of the applicant's commitment to residing in the U.S. continuously, which is a vital aspect of the naturalization process.