N-400 form - Do you give 5-year history if applying through marriage (3-years)?

[robgreen999 0]

Hey everyone, I'm new to this site, but it seems like a great place. I've searched for an answer for this, but I've had no luck.

Basically, I'm about to file form N-400 to apply for my citizenship, and have been married & living in the US for the last 3 years. Therefore, for the following sections, do I complete the history just for the last 3 years (since residency) or the last 5 years, as stated?

Part 6 - Information about your residence and employment.

- A. Where have you lived during the last five years?

- B. Where have you worked during the last five years?

Part 7 - Time outside the United States

- A. How many total days did you spend outside of the United States during the past five years?

- B. How many trips of 24 hours or more have you taken outside of the United States during the past five years?

It's really confusing, because on one hand, you'd assume that since it says five, then list that. On the other hand, it makes no sense, because I'd be listing trips & living days outside of the US before becoming a resident. I suppose section 6 could make sense as being five, for security or something. But I don't want to assume, one way or the other.

If anyone could clarify with certainty I'd be eternally grateful.

Thanks everyone!

Rob

[Shub 78]

It's what's been going on since you became a permanent resident that interests them. Since you haven't been here for 5 years, the questions aren't worded clearly, but some people (like me) who have been here for more than 5 years but chose not to apply for citizenship immediately would have 5+ years of history.

[robgreen999 0]

Ahh, that's what I thought, thanks for that. I agree, it really should be worded better. They should really state something like "...the last five years (or since becoming a resident if you have resided in the United States for less than five years)." They don't even elaborate on it in the N-400 instructions.

Thanks for clarifying, I appreciate it.

Rob