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The Daily Insight

How long do you have to be married to keep US citizenship?

Author

Ava Robinson

Published Apr 22, 2026

three years
As a permanent resident who is married to a U.S. citizen, you may be eligible for naturalization after just three years. This is a significant benefit (as it normally requires five years as a permanent resident before applying for citizenship).

Can you become a US citizen by marriage?

You may be eligible to apply for U.S. citizenship (naturalization) if for at least the past 3 years you have been a green card holder (permanent resident) through marriage to an American citizen and have lived in the United States the entire time.

Who pays for a Nigerian wedding?

Traditionally, the groom pays for the bride’s betrothal and wedding rings, and the bride pays for the groom’s ring.

What if a U.S. citizen marries outside the US?

As a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, you’re free to marry a foreign national or non-citizen immigrant – but you’ll need to consider immigration laws to move your new spouse to the U.S. permanently.

How much does it cost to become a US citizen through marriage?

The cost involved with obtaining a green card through marriage varies depending on your age and immigration circumstances. The USCIS lists the green card fee cost as: $535 for the I-130 petition. $85 biometrics services fee.

Can a US citizen be married to a foreign national?

If you are a U.S. citizen married to a foreign national who is living abroad, this guide is for both of you—we’ll go step by step through the process of getting your marriage green card. This type of green card application process is also commonly called “ Consular Processing .”

How long do you have to be married to an US citizen?

No specific period of marital union is required; however, you and your U.S. citizen spouse must be in a valid marriage from the time you file your Form N-400 until the time you naturalize.

Can a US citizen sponsor a spouse living abroad?

A spouse living abroad will attend an interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate in their home country, after receiving an appointment notice with the exact time, date, and location. The sponsoring spouse does not attend this interview. Check out these resources for more details: Common interview questions (which can get very personal!)

How to get a marriage visa for a foreign spouse?

If you get married abroad and need to know if your marriage will be recognized in the United States and what documentation may be needed, contact the office of the Attorney General of your state of residence in the United States. You can get information on obtaining a visa for a foreign spouse here.