We. as a nation. have long sought ways to recognize. and to reward those who serve in our countrys Armed Forces. and who are willing to pay the supreme sacrifice if necessary in the defense of our Nation. Although we cannot bring back those who die in the service. we can strive to minimize as much as possible the hardships which can result. The provisions of this bill provide just this kind of opportunity to show our gratitude to the alien surviving spouse by enabling expeditious naturalization. Under existing provisions of law. an alien who is the spouse of a U.S. citizen must show that during the 3 years immediately preceding the date of filing her petition. she has resided continuously within the United States after being lawfully admitted for permanent residence. she has been physically present in the United States for periods totaling at least onehalf of this 3year period. she has resided within the State in which the petition is filed for at least 6 months. and has continuously lived in marital union with the citizen spouse during these 3 years. An alien who is not married to a U.S. citizen. or one who is widowed before the final hearing. must fulfill the above requirements for 5 instead of 3 years.
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naturalization