Legal Question in Immigration Law in California

If you obtained U.S. Permanent Residency through employment, you must have your greencard for 5 years before you can naturalize. However, you can file for naturalization 90 days prior to the 5 year anniversary.

During that 5 year period, you must be present in the U.S. for at least 50% of the time & show good moral character.

If you obtained your greencard the end of 2008, you won't be eligible for naturalization until the end of 2013. (If you are married to a U.S. citizen, then you can apply now).