Q&A

Can you serve in the US military without being a citizen?

Can you serve in the US military without being a citizen?

You do not have to be a U.S. citizen to enlist in the military, but you may have fewer options. If you are not a U.S. citizen, you must: Have a permanent resident card, also known as a Green Card. Currently live in the U.S.

Can I become a U.S. citizen by joining the military?

As a member of the U.S. Armed Forces, you may be eligible for naturalization after just one year of military service. This is a significant benefit (as it normally requires five years as a permanent resident before applying for citizenship). There is expedited citizenship for U.S. Armed Forces and families.

Can a foreigner join US Special Forces?

You cannot get a top-secret security clearance as a non-citizen, but you can join the military with a green card. …

Can a non-citizen serve in the US military?

The U.S. Military Helps Naturalize Non-Citizens. Since the Revolutionary War, legal permanent residents are eligible to enlist in the military. Roughly 35,000 non-citizens are serving in active duty military and about 8,000 join each year. Non-citizen service members offer several benefits to the military.

How long do you have to serve in the military before you can apply for US citizenship?

At most, eligible foreign-born service members only need one year of honorable service before they can file their Form N-400, Application for Naturalization. No state-of-residence requirement.

Can a non-citizen join the Marine Corps?

You must have a High School Diploma. Similar to other Military Branches, non-citizens can enlist into the Marines but cannot be in an officer position. To enlist in the Marine Corps you must get a minimum score of 35 on the ASVAB test with a High School Diploma. Marines are required to complete a series of physical tests.

Can a non-citizen become a warrant officer?

However, federal law prohibits non-citizens from becoming commission or warrant officers. In order for a non-citizen to enlist in the military, they must first be a legal immigrant (with a green card), permanently residing in the United States.