There is an exemption from the consecutive residence requirement for foreign nationals who are married to a U.S. citizen who is assigned outside the country by the U.S. employer. In this case, the foreign national only has to fulfill the presence and residence requirements at the time of naturalization. Additionally, the applicant has to ensure his or her intention to reside outside the U.S. with the spouse until the naturalization process is completed and to reside within the United States upon completion of the spouse’s assignment. You can can immediately apply for citizenship after obtaining the green card, if these requirements are met. You do not have to wait the regular period of three or five years after becoming a permanent resident.