US Citizenship qualification for surviving spouse

[askkashi]

Hi,
I became a Permanent Residence in October 2007 through my spouse. Unfortunately my spouse passed away in April 2008. I am still a surviving widow.
I have not gone out of the USA in the past five years.

I was wondering if I am eligible to apply for US Citizenship now since it has been almost three years since I received my green card or do i have to wait for five years to apply for the citizenship.

Your response would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

[sooner88]

Hello,

You will find a graph with requirements and timetables for U.S. citizenship at https://www.immihelp.com/us-naturalization-eligibility/ .

[askkashi]

Still in search for specific answer

Thank, I have reviewed the page you specify but it does not mention the specifics around my situation. The closest i found was the following

"If you are at least 18 years old and:
Were married to a U.S. citizen who died during a period of honorable active duty service in the U.S. Armed Forces
Note: You must have been married to and living with your U.S. citizen spouse at the time of his/her death. "

My spouse was not an active duty service member in US Armed Forces.

Thank you for your reply but if you know if i can apply for citizenship as a widow after being a Permanent Residence for three years, please let me know.

Thanks

[fatfergie]

I don't think the Immigration & Nationality Act specifically addresses your situation, but you're surely not the first.

Why don't you just call them at the National Service Center - 1-800-375-5283.

You may have to wait on hold while they look up the answer, but it costs you nothing.

I would make sure to get the name/number of the person who gives you the info and make a note of the time and day if you get the go-ahead to apply now -- just in case there's a problem later.

Let us know how it works out and good luck!

[askkashi]

Thanks you

I called the USCIS and according to them, I need to wait for 5 years before I can apply for US Citizenship.

I will double check with a lawyer as well but that is the information that i got so far.

Thanks all for your inputs.