How long does one wait to apply for citizenship?

[Ofi & Javy 12]

Husband just got approved and got his residence. We have been married 5 years and I am a citizen. How long does he have to wait to apply for citizenship?

Some say one has to be married to a citizen for 3 years, others say one has to be a resident for 5. Can someone clarify please.

Edited November 1, 2015 by Ofi & Javy

[belinda63 3,053]

The length of the marriage is irrelevant somewhat. If he is married to the same US citizen he can apply for citizenship 3 years minus 90 days from the date of resident since on his green card. If you don't remain married he has to wait five years minus 90 days from the date of resident since.

[Elf 146]

He will be able to file the N-400 90 days before the third anniversary of becoming a permanent resident, on the basis of having been an LPR for three years AND having been married to a USC spouse for that entire period. That assumes that he meets all other eligibility criteria (physical presence, continuous residence etc) and continues to live "in marital union" until his naturalization interview.

Here's the relevant page on the USCIS website and you can use the Early Filing Calculator to calculate the precise date on which he will be eligible to file.

[Ofi & Javy 12]

Thank you. Just wanting to make sure.