How many years must a person reside in the United States to be eligible for the presidency?

To be eligible for the presidency, a candidate must have been a resident of the United States for at least 14 years. This requirement is explicitly stated in the U.S. Constitution, which outlines the prerequisites for someone wanting to hold the office of President. The framers included this criterion to ensure that a presidential candidate has a significant connection and understanding of the nation and its citizens, thus reinforcing the importance of being deeply rooted in the country's social, political, and cultural landscape.

Other options such as 10, 12, or 15 years do not align with the constitutional requirement. While residency is important for a candidate's ability to relate and serve effectively, the specific requirement of 14 years reflects a balance between ensuring sufficient familiarity with the nation while not allowing for an indefinite period that may exclude truly qualified candidates who may have recently returned to the U.S. after living abroad. Thus, understanding the 14-year residency requirement helps clarify constitutional guidelines for presidential eligibility.