How do I calculate physical presence for U.S. naturalization?

To qualify for naturalization under the general provision (INA 316), a permanent resident must demonstrate 'physical presence' in the United States. For most applicants, this requirement is a minimum of 30 months of physical presence out of the 60 months (five years) immediately preceding the date of filing Form N-400. If you are applying based on marriage to a U.S. citizen, the requirement is reduced to 18 months of physical presence out of the 36 months (three years) preceding the filing date.

Physical presence means that you were actually inside the United States for the required number of days. It is distinct from 'continuous residence,' which implies that you maintained your primary home in the U.S. without significant breaks. Short trips abroad (less than six months) generally do not break continuous residence, but they do count as days away from the U.S. for the purpose of the physical presence calculation. When calculating your days, you should count every day you were physically within the 50 states, the District of Columbia, and territories like Puerto Rico, Guam, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and the Northern Mariana Islands. Time spent in transit outside the U.S. counts as time outside the country. USCIS provides an N-400 calculator and worksheets to help applicants track their travel history. If you have spent significant time abroad, it is advisable to consult your travel records (including passport stamps and airline receipts) to ensure you meet the threshold before submitting your application.