Eligible students that intend to become residents of California must fulfill both the Physical Presence and Intent requirements listed below. A resident is any person who has been a bona fide resident of California for at least one year on the residence determination date.Residency Requirements for Community Colleges: ; Has continuously resided in New York City for the 6 months immediately preceding the first day of classes, OR. You must be continuously physically present in California for more than one year (366 days) immediately prior to the residence determination date.