Military Naturalization Benefits
Members of the U.S. Armed Forces can become eligible to apply for citizenship under special provisions in the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). Members of the U.S. Armed Forces include the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Coast Guard, certain Reserve of the National Guard, and selected Reserve of the Ready Reserve. Recent changes to the INA have made the citizenship process easier for qualified military personnel. The USCIS has also created a streamlined process for those who are in active-duty, or have been discharged recently.
General Qualifications
- Good moral character;
- Knowledge of the English language;
- Knowledge of U.S. government and history;
- Attachment to the U.S. through an oath of allegiance to the U.S. Constitution.
Qualifications for Periods of Conflict
- Currently serving or having served in a period of conflict;
- Lawfully admitted as a permanent resident of the United States after enlistment OR
- Physically present in the United States or qualifying territory at the time of enlistment, reenlistment, or induction.
Current Benefits for Those Serving in Active Duty and Their Families
- No filing fee has to be submitted;
- A designated point-of-contact to assist with the application process;
- Oath ceremony made available overseas;
- Spouses of members of the U.S. Armed Forces that are deployed abroad for a year are eligible for expedited naturalization;
- Awarding of posthumous citizenship to active-duty military personnel who die while serving in the Armed Forces, and special consideration for surviving family members seeking immigration benefits.