Getting U.S. citizenship through military service is a legitimate and often faster route for eligible non-citizens. Here’s a full breakdown of the process, requirements, benefits, and what to watch out for.
🪖 Can You Get U.S. Citizenship by Joining the Military?
Yes. If you’re a non-citizen but legally living in the U.S., you may qualify for expedited naturalization through honorable service in the U.S. Armed Forces, even without a green card in some cases.
👤 Who Qualifies?
You may qualify if you:
- Are a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) or
- Were physically present in the U.S. (legally or not) when you enlisted
- Serve honorably in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, or Space Force
- Meet good moral character requirements
- Demonstrate English and U.S. civics knowledge
- ILR Application as Refugee UK
- Explore other visa options → UK Work Visas
📆 When Can You Apply?
There are two main pathways, depending on when and where you served:
1. During Peacetime (INA § 328)
- Requires 1 year of honorable service
- Must be a green card holder
- Can apply for naturalization while serving or within 6 months of honorable discharge
2. During Hostilities (INA § 329)
The U.S. has been in a designated period of hostilities since Sept 11, 2001 (still in effect in 2025).
- No minimum length of service required
- No green card required — you can apply even if undocumented at the time of enlistment
- Must serve honorably at any time after Sept 11, 2001
📝 How to Apply
- Complete Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization)
- Submit Form N-426 (Request for Certification of Military Service), signed by your commanding officer
- Submit required documents (passport, green card if applicable, service documents)
- Attend biometric appointment and naturalization interview
- Take the Oath of Allegiance
📍 In many cases, naturalization can be completed while still on active duty.
🪪 Benefits of Military Naturalization
✅ No USCIS filing fee (normally $640)
✅ Expedited processing
✅ No requirement to first become a green card holder (under hostilities)
✅ Family may receive expedited processing too
✅ Become eligible for U.S. passports and full benefits
⚠️ Legal Disclaimer
*”This guide outlines general military naturalization pathways but does NOT constitute legal advice. Eligibility depends on individual circumstances, including:
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Service type (e.g., MAVNI program is currently suspended).
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Discharge status (Dishonorable/General discharge voids eligibility).
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Continuous good moral character (arrests or fraud disqualify applicants).
Consult a military immigration attorney (JAG) or USCIS-accredited representative before applying. For official rules, refer to USCIS Military Naturalization.”*
🔗 Resources
- USCIS – Citizenship Through Military
- Form N-426 (Certification of Military Service)
- Form N-400 (Naturalization)
