U.S. Citizenship After Military Service

If a person’s service is “honorable” by their particular branch of the U.S. Armed Forces they will be qualified to apply.  The U.S. Armed Forces include the U.S. Navy, Army, Space Force, Marines, Coast Guard, or Air Force. An applicant may serve with a unit in the National Guard, as long as the unit is determined at the federal level to be a “reserve component” of the U.S. Armed Forces. 

Service members who apply for U.S. citizenship after honorable discharge must have lived in the U.S. for at least 5 continuous years. Serving in the military during that 5-year period, and being deployed, can be counted towards the residence requirements. This is true even if they’ve been deployed abroad. 

Service members who apply while they are in service or within six months of being honorably discharged do not need to meet the residence requirement.  

Steps to Apply for U.S. Citizenship after Military Service 

1. Determine citizenship eligibility: The first step is to determine if you are eligible for U.S.citizenship based on your military service. To be eligible, you must have served honorably in the US military for at least one year and have a green card (permanent resident status).
2. Apply for naturalization: Once you have determined that you are eligible, you can apply for naturalization. The process involves completing Form N-400, submitting supporting documents, and attending an interview with a USCIS officer. You will also need to pass a civics and English language test. 
3. Expedited processing: If you are currently serving in the military or have recently been discharged, you may be eligible for expedited processing of your naturalization application. This can help you to become a citizen more quickly and can be especially helpful if you are deploying overseas soon. 
4. Attend the naturalization interview: After filing your application, you will receive a notice to appear for an interview with a USCIS officer. During the naturalization interview, you will be asked questions about your application, background, and eligibility for naturalization. 
5. Take the Oath of Allegiance: If your application is approved, you will be scheduled to take the Oath of Allegiance at a naturalization ceremony. This oath signifies your commitment to the United States and its values and is the final step in the naturalization. 

Getting citizenship after US military service is a streamlined process for many service members. There are some potential issues that could impact your eligibility for citizenship, such as a criminal history or a history of immigration violations. If you have any concerns about your eligibility, you should consult with an immigration attorney. 

Potential Issues for U.S. Citizenship After Military Service  

• Criminal history: If you have a criminal record, it could affect your eligibility for citizenship. Some crimes, such as aggravated felonies, can make you permanently ineligible for naturalization. 
• Honorable service: If you did not serve honorably or were discharged under dishonorable conditions, you may not be eligible for citizenship through military service. 
• Language proficiency: You must be able to read, write, and speak English to qualify for citizenship through military service. If you struggle with English, you may need to take additional language classes to meet this requirement. 

The Benefits of U.S. Citizenship After Military Service

Becoming a citizen after military service can have many advantages, especially when combined with military benefits that include mortgage and education programs. The application fee should not be a restriction for service members to apply, and OPA is here to support your citizenship journey with our community immigration loan. In addition, if you need legal assistance, use a free community resource to get that support and avoid paying additional legal fees. 

Stronger U.S. Economy Through Immigrant Financing

Immigrants in the United States are a crucial component of the country's economy- especially our military men and women. They often face significant barriers when it comes to obtaining financing and loans. Providing financial support to immigrants can have a significant positive impact on both the individual and the national economy. Immigrants in the U.S. deserve financing and loans to reach their American dreams, too. 

Financial Contributions of Immigrants

Immigrants in the U.S. make significant contributions to the country's economy. According to a report by the National Immigration Forum, immigrants in the U.S. are responsible for starting 25% of all new businesses, and they are more likely to start businesses than U.S. -born Americans. In addition to this, immigrants pay billions of dollars in taxes each year and make up a significant portion of the country's workforce.

Despite these contributions, immigrants often face significant financial challenges when it comes to obtaining financing and loans. Many immigrants do not have the necessary credit history or collateral to secure loans from traditional lenders, and they may also face language barriers and discrimination when attempting to access financial services. 

Providing financing to immigrant entrepreneurs alone can help them start and grow businesses, which can create jobs and stimulate economic growth in their communities. The Fiscal Policy Institute reported that immigrant-owned businesses in New York City generate $17 billion in income and support over 200,000 jobs. If we provided immigrants with financing alternatives for education, auto and home purchases, savings and retirement, and even healthcare, for example, there could be an influx of business for banks and these industries.

How Immigrant Investments Benefit the U.S. Economy

Offering finance options would also help immigrants achieve financial stability and independence, which can have significant positive impacts on their families and overall communities. This can address systemic inequality and lack of growth amongst underserved neighborhoods across states.  

A study by the National Bureau of Economic Research found that providing loans to undocumented immigrants in Georgia led to an increase in economic activity and job creation in low-income neighborhoods. 

Investing in immigrants is ethically fair and economically smart. Immigrants make significant contributions to the economy and providing them with financial support can help them achieve financial stability and independence, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth.  

By addressing the barriers that prevent immigrants from accessing financing and loans, we can build a more inclusive and prosperous economy for everyone.