What is the significance of the “date of admission” in the N-400?

The "date of admission" is significant because it specifically indicates when a person became a lawful permanent resident of the United States. This date is crucial for determining eligibility for naturalization since one of the primary requirements is that the applicant must have held lawful permanent resident status for a certain period before they can apply for U.S. citizenship. Essentially, this date marks the beginning of the individual's permanent residency, setting the stage for their application process and establishing the timeline necessary for fulfilling residency duration requirements as outlined by USCIS. Understanding this date helps applicants track their qualifications and ensures compliance with the naturalization pathways provided by immigration law.