As you may imagine, gathering the necessary documentation, completing and submitting your application, attending a biometrics appointment, completing the required interviews and examinations, and processing your application all take time. Some offices may process applications faster than others, but the average time it takes to complete the entire process is between nine months and one year. And, of course, this process cannot begin until you have completed five years of lawful permanent residency in the U.S. (or three years after marrying a U.S. citizen).