1. What is the USCIS 90-Day Filing Rule?

The USCIS 90-day rule allows eligible permanent residents to file for naturalization up to 90 days before they meet the continuous residence requirement. For most applicants, this means filing 90 days before the 5-year anniversary of becoming a permanent resident.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the following formula:

Where:

• \( PR\ Date \) — Date you became a permanent resident (on your green card)
• \( 5\ years \) — Standard continuous residence requirement for most applicants
• \( 90\ days \) — The earliest period before your anniversary date you can file

Explanation: The calculator adds 5 years to your PR date, then subtracts 90 days to determine your earliest eligible filing date.

3. Importance of the 90-Day Rule

Details: Filing during this 90-day window can help you begin the naturalization process earlier while ensuring your application isn't rejected for being filed too early.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the date you became a permanent resident (as shown on your green card). The calculator will show your 5-year anniversary date and the earliest date you can file your N-400 application.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Is this calculator accurate for all applicants?
A: This applies to most applicants filing under the 5-year rule. Different rules apply for spouses of U.S. citizens (3-year rule) or other special cases.

Q2: What if my PR date was adjusted?
A: If you adjusted status, use the "Resident Since" date on your green card, not your original entry date.

Q3: Can I file exactly 90 days before?
A: Yes, 90 days before is the earliest you can file. USCIS will reject applications filed earlier.

Q4: Does this account for leap years?
A: Yes, the calculator properly accounts for leap years in its date calculations.

Q5: What time zone does USCIS use for filing dates?
A: For online filings, it's based on Eastern Time. For paper filings, it's based on the postmark date.