Duration limit outside U.S.

[ahmoody]

I obtained my permanent residency through my wife ( Category CR1) last April. Now, me, my wife, and our son relocated overseas since i was sent by my U.S. company to run their branch in the middle east for a few years. I usually go back to the U.S. once or twice a year for work related meetings or to visit her family. However, my question is; is there a limit on the number of months i am allowed to stay outside the U.S. to maintain my permanent residency status? and will staying overseas for this extended periods of time affect my transition to become a U.S citizen when the time comes?

[AFFA]

I wish to inform you that if you are having Green Card then you must always have intend to permanently reside in the U.S. Generally you may not stay abroad for more than a year at a time. Further for citizenship e must maintain five (5) years permanent residence in the U.S. (i.e., must be in U.S. 30 of 60 months); NOTE: the period of continuous residence is shortened to 18 months for green card holders married to U.S. citizens.

AFF