People who are already permanent residents can apply for U.S. citizenship through naturalization once they have been present in the U.S. as permanent residents for long enough and show good moral character. A permanent resident who lives with his or her U.S. citizen spouse can apply after only three years, and five years as a permanent resident is the required period of time for just about everyone else. The naturalization application asks for an astounding level of detail, including every traffic ticket, trip abroad, and family member. Good moral character is impacted by full disclosure of relevant information, payment of any taxes or child support owed, and of course any criminal record.