Becoming a U.S. citizen is a dream for many immigrants, but the process can feel long and complicated. If you have a green card and are willing to serve in the U.S. military, you may be able to become a citizen much faster. Military service can open a quicker path to citizenship, with fewer hurdles than the traditional route. In this blog, we’ll explain how it works, what steps you need to take, and how the timeline compares to standard naturalization.
Joining the Military as a Path to Citizenship
If you already have a green card, you can enlist in the U.S. military and start working toward citizenship. Not every branch accepts non-citizens, but the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard all allow lawful permanent residents to serve.
Before joining, you’ll need to meet basic enlistment requirements, including:
- Passing a background check
- Meeting age and fitness standards
- Speaking, reading, and writing basic English
Once you’re enlisted, your service can help you qualify for citizenship faster than if you stayed a civilian. Generally, you need to complete one year of honorable service before applying. However, if you serve during a period of hostility (and the U.S. has designated that the country has been in a period of hostility ever since September 11, 2001), you can even apply for citizenship immediately after starting your service. Either way, the military path gives you a real advantage.
The Citizenship Application Process for Service Members
Military service doesn’t automatically make you a citizen, but it does make the application process more direct. After enlisting, you’ll work with your chain of command to complete the necessary forms:
- Form N-400: This is the main application for naturalization.
- Form N-426: This certifies your military service and must be signed by an official in your branch.
One benefit is that military applicants do not have to pay the filing fee that civilians normally pay. You’ll also have fewer residency requirements to worry about. For example, if you’re stationed overseas, your time spent abroad won’t count against you like it might for a civilian applicant.
Once your forms are submitted, you’ll go through an interview where an officer will test your knowledge of U.S. civics, your ability to read and write English, and your understanding of the Constitution. Some service members even complete their interview and take the oath of citizenship right on their military base. It’s a proud moment and a powerful step toward building your life in the United States.
Comparing Timelines: Military vs. Civilian Naturalization
Usually, a green card holder must wait five years before applying for citizenship, or three years if married to a U.S. citizen. On top of that, you must meet physical presence and continuous residence requirements, meaning you can’t leave the U.S. for long periods without affecting your eligibility.
Military service shortens the wait significantly:
- If you serve honorably during a time of conflict, you may apply for citizenship immediately.
- If you serve during peacetime, you must complete one year of honorable service before applying.
In either case, military members also benefit from waived residency and physical presence requirements. That means your path to citizenship can move forward even if you are deployed overseas or stationed far from home. It’s one of the many ways the government recognizes the sacrifices service members make.
Helping Service Members Become U.S. Citizens
At Central Justice, we understand that serving in the military is a significant commitment, and we believe your path to citizenship should be as straightforward as possible. We’re here to guide you through every step, including:
- Completing and filing the required forms accurately
- Preparing you for your citizenship interview
- Helping you understand your rights and responsibilities along the way
Whether you’re considering enlistment or already proudly wearing the uniform, we’re ready to support your journey to U.S. citizenship. Military service can open doors to citizenship faster than the traditional process, but every step matters. Let Central Justice help you move forward. Contact us today to get started.
