Fact Check: How long do you need to be a permanent resident before...

1. Summary of the results

The length of permanent residency required for US citizenship depends on your specific circumstances:

The standard requirement is 5 years of continuous permanent residency ^[1]
For those married to US citizens, the requirement is reduced to 3 years of continuous permanent residency ^[2]

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints

The original question omits several crucial details that applicants need to be aware of:

Applicants can file Form N-400 up to 90 days before completing their required continuous residence period ^[2]
Additional requirements beyond just the residency period include:
Demonstrating good moral character
Passing language and civics tests
For those applying through marriage, maintaining a marital union throughout the period ^[2]

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement

The original question oversimplifies the naturalization process by:

Implying there's a single, universal waiting period
Not acknowledging the different pathways to citizenship
Not mentioning that mere time as a permanent resident isn't sufficient - there are additional requirements that must be met ^[2]

This oversimplification could benefit:

Immigration consultants and lawyers who might charge fees for explaining these "hidden" requirements
Anti-immigration groups who might argue the process is too simple
Pro-immigration groups who might want to downplay the complexity of the process

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