U.S. Military Citizenship Requirements: A Complete Guide

Joining the U.S. military is a big decision—and for many people who weren’t born in the United States, it can also be a step toward becoming a U.S. citizen. If you’re not a citizen but want to serve, or if you’re already in the military, it’s important to understand the military citizenship requirements. These rules help you know who can apply and what the process looks like.

The U.S. government honors those who serve by offering a faster way to become a citizen. But there are still certain rules and steps to follow. Knowing the citizenship requirements to join the U.S. military and what you need to do afterward can help you avoid mistakes and delays.

Who Can Join the U.S. Military If They’re Not a Citizen?

Before you can think about applying for U.S. citizenship through the military, you need to make sure you’re allowed to enlist in the first place. Not everyone who lives in the U.S. can join the military. You must either be a U.S. citizen, a U.S. national, or a green card holder.

People living in the U.S. without legal status, or those here on temporary visas, usually cannot join the military. If you already have a green card, you’re in a better position—you can enlist and later apply for citizenship under the military citizenship requirements. But you’ll still have to meet other conditions set by immigration officials.

How Military Service Can Lead to Citizenship

There are laws that let people in the military become citizens faster than normal. These rules apply to people currently serving and to veterans. The main forms you’ll need are Form N-400 (which is your application for citizenship) and Form N-426 (which proves your military service).

There are two ways to qualify: one is during peacetime, and the other is during wartime. If you’re serving during wartime—like after the events of 9/11—you can apply for citizenship right after you start serving. In peacetime, you need to serve for at least a year first. Either way, you must show good character and agree to support the U.S. Constitution.

Citizenship Requirements to Join the U.S. Military

Even though military service can help you become a citizen, you still need to meet certain requirements just to join. These citizenship requirements to join the U.S. military are checked by recruiters before you’re allowed to enlist.

To join as a non-citizen, you must:

• Have a valid green card
• Be living in the U.S. legally
• Meet the age and education rules
• Pass a background check
• Be able to speak and understand English
• Meet the moral and physical standards set by the military

In some cases, U.S. nationals from places like American Samoa may also qualify. People here on temporary visas, DACA recipients, and undocumented immigrants usually cannot enlist.

Why Citizenship Matters for Service Members

Getting U.S. citizenship comes with many important rights and benefits. One big advantage for military members is that they can often skip the long waiting period required of other immigrants. Normally, you’d have to be a green card holder for five years before applying. But under military citizenship requirements, that time can be waived.

Once you become a citizen, you can vote, apply for federal jobs, and help family members immigrate to the U.S. You’ll also be protected from deportation and may find it easier to get security clearances. These benefits can make a big difference for service members and their families.

What Forms Do You Need to Apply?

To apply for citizenship through military service, you need to fill out Form N-400, which is the same application that civilians use. But unlike regular applicants, you’ll also need Form N-426. This form proves your service and must be signed by someone in the military. It also waives the normal filing fee.

Along with these forms, you should provide a copy of your green card, proof of identity, and military documents. You might need things like your deployment orders, discharge paperwork, or ID cards. Make sure to double-check your documents before sending them to USCIS.

What’s the Difference Between Peacetime and Wartime Citizenship?

The process for becoming a citizen depends on whether the U.S. is at peace or involved in a war. During peacetime, you have to serve honorably for at least one year before applying for citizenship. You also need to be a lawful permanent resident when you file your application.

If you’re serving during wartime, like in the years since 9/11, you can apply for citizenship as soon as you begin serving. You still have to show good moral character, support U.S. laws, and speak English. But the military citizenship requirements are much easier to meet under wartime rules.

Citizenship Options for Veterans

If you’re a veteran who served honorably, you might still qualify for citizenship—even if you’re no longer on active duty. As long as you served during a time of war or for at least one year in peacetime, you can apply for naturalization. You’ll just need to show proof that your service was honorable.

Veterans usually submit their discharge papers (called DD-214) with their application. If your discharge was not honorable, your application will likely be denied. Veterans are also expected to pass a citizenship interview and take an English and civics test, unless they’re eligible for a waiver.

Common Mistakes That Can Delay Your Application

Even though military members get special help with citizenship, there are still some common mistakes to avoid. One of the biggest is sending in incomplete forms. Missing signatures, wrong dates, or skipped questions can cause USCIS to reject your application.

Also, don’t apply before you’re eligible. Some people try to file their paperwork before completing the required service time. Others forget to include their military certification. If you’re confused, you can talk to a legal advisor or visit the legal office on your base for help.

What to Expect After You Apply for U.S. Military Citizenship

After you send in your paperwork, USCIS will review it and contact you for an interview. In the interview, they’ll ask about your military service and test your knowledge of English and U.S. history. If you’re on active duty, they might even do the interview at your base.

Once you pass the interview and background checks, you’ll be invited to a ceremony where you take the Oath of Allegiance. Some military members get to do this quickly—especially if they’re getting deployed. After the ceremony, you’ll receive a certificate proving you’re a U.S. citizen.

Final Thoughts on Military Citizenship Requirements

The military citizenship requirements are designed to honor those who serve the country. They give service members and veterans a faster, simpler path to becoming U.S. citizens. But the process still requires careful attention to forms, eligibility rules, and deadlines.

If you’re in the military and thinking about applying for citizenship, don’t wait. Learn what you need to do, gather your paperwork, and take the first step. Your service already makes you a valued part of this country—becoming a citizen will make it official.

If you have questions about your case, contact your base’s legal assistance office or visit the USCIS military page for more information, or you can speak with an immigration lawyer at FileRight.