Can I apply for citizenship much later after 5 years

[mazdur_desi]

Here is the situation:
I have completed 32 months in US thereby satisfying the physical presence test for citizenship. I will complete 5 years in July 2009. For medical reasons, I have to be out of the country for extended periods but I can travel for 10 - 15 days every 5 months, thereby maintaining the green card status.
Now if I return in 2009 and apply I have been told that I would not get citizenship because I will not have shown intent to stay in US. If I return in 2009, stay on for a year or more say until 2010 and then apply for citizenship, will that show my intent.
Also, just to understand, assuming I apply in 2009 and the citizenship application is rejected, will that affect my green card status? Will the clock for citizenship start all over again (i.e. will I have to stay for 5 years before I get citizenship?)
Thanks for any answers

 

[rogerkint]

yes.

you'd have to wait another five years after you return to stay in the US permanently again. you can apply for re-entry permit and stay outside the US for two years.

 

[boatbod]

you'd have to wait another five years after you return to stay in the US permanently again. you can apply for re-entry permit and stay outside the US for two years.

4years+1day rule would apply if you are away longer than 1 year.

 

[N400Applier]

Here is the situation:
I have completed 32 months in US thereby satisfying the physical presence test for citizenship. I will complete 5 years in July 2009. For medical reasons, I have to be out of the country for extended periods but I can travel for 10 - 15 days every 5 months, thereby maintaining the green card status.
Now if I return in 2009 and apply I have been told that I would not get citizenship because I will not have shown intent to stay in US. If I return in 2009, stay on for a year or more say until 2010 and then apply for citizenship, will that show my intent.
Also, just to understand, assuming I apply in 2009 and the citizenship application is rejected, will that affect my green card status? Will the clock for citizenship start all over again (i.e. will I have to stay for 5 years before I get citizenship?)
Thanks for any answers

You state "but I can travel for 10 - 15 days every 5 months, thereby maintaining the green card status." this is where your problem is.

You will have to prove permanent Intent with Bank statements, Tax Transcripts and Medical records etc. Consult with a lawyer before proceeding.