Looking for the answer, can you join the military without a green card? You might be surprised to find out that there are several ways you can do this. In this blog, we will discuss the different eligibility requirements for enrolling in the military without a green card. We will also go over some of the options available to you.
So, whether you are looking to serve your country or just want to learn more about the military, read on for the latest information. Yes, you can join the military without a green card. But, you will need to meet certain eligibility requirements, including being a U.S. permanent citizen and legal residency.
Can You Join the Military without a Green Card 2022:
If you are a citizen of a country that is not currently in the U.S. military or if you are not a U.S. citizen, you may be eligible to join the U.S. Army without a green card. This process, known as Direct Entry, is available to those who can meet certain requirements. Including being a fit and qualified individual, having a character certificate, passing a medical examination, and more.
What Are the Requirements for Non-citizens to Join the U.S. Military?
The U.S. military is one of the most sought-after employers in the world. Applicants from all over the globe try to join the military in order to gain valuable military experience, gain skills that they can use in their careers, and make a real difference in the world. To be considered for U.S. military service, you must meet specific requirements. Those are:
1. Must Be Lawfully and Permanently Residing in the United States:
Only US citizens and lawful permanent residents can join the U.S. military. This means that you must have a valid green card. This is an identification card issued to people who are legally allowed to live and work in the United States. Suppose you are not a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident. In that case, you cannot enlist in the military, nor can you receive any veterans benefits if you later become eligible for them based on your service in the military.
2. Non-citizens Must Also Be Granted Authorization to Work in the U.s.:
In order to be considered for military service, you must first have permission from the U.S. Department of Labor to work in the United States. If you are not a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, your employer will have to sponsor your application for a visa. This is a document that proves that you are allowed to work in the United States and will allow you to stay in America while applying for citizenship.
3. Have a Form I-551 (Permanent Resident Card):
You will also need an I-551 (Permanent Residence Card). This document is issued to people who have been granted lawful permanent residency in the United States. It shows that you are allowed to live and work in America indefinitely. You must present this card when joining the military and whenever you are questioned about your service eligibility.
4. Also Have a High School Diploma and Are Fluent in English:
In addition to meeting the general requirements above, you will also need to meet specific qualifications to enlist in the U.S. military. These include having a high school diploma and speaking English fluently.
How Many Non-citizens Currently Serve in the U.S. Military?
An estimated 800,000 non-citizen veterans are serving in the United States military between 1999 to 2010. This number is growing every year because more and more service members are obtaining civilian jobs after leaving the military.
How Many Non-citizen Service Members Have Naturalized?
As of FY2001-FY2015, an estimated 109,321 non-citizen service members had been naturalized as U.S. citizens. But many of them still had a passport from their country of last residency or an immigration visa.
What Are the Naturalization Requirements for Noncitizen Service Members?
The naturalization process is long and requires meeting certain requirements. But it is well worth it if you want to become a full and equal member of the American community. As the United States faces an increasing number of military veterans seeking to become citizens, it has become increasingly important to know the requirements for naturalization. Here is a list of some of the most common reasons service members may not be eligible to apply for citizenship.
1. Moral Uprightness:
People who have served in the U.S. military may have to meet a good moral character requirement before they can naturalize. This means that they must show that they are upright and honest citizens who have followed the law during their time in the service.
2. English Language Proficiency:
Service members must also demonstrate that they are literate in English. This means that they must be able to read, write, and speak the language fluently. Otherwise, they may be required to take the Test of Basic Aptitude that includes questions on English efficiency.
3. Familiarity with the governance and history of the United States:
The next requirement is that the service member demonstrates a basic level of knowledge about the U.S. government and history. This includes understanding things like the Constitution, how Congress works, and basic facts about major figures in American history.
4. Respect to the United States and the United States Constitution:
The final requirement is that one must have a strong attachment to the U.S. and allegiance to the U.S. Constitution. This indicates that they must show a deep commitment to these values and believe in American democratic principles like free speech, freedom of religion, and equal rights for all people living in America.
What Are Current Challenges for Non-citizens in the U.S. Military?
The current challenges for non-citizens in the U.S. military are numerous and varied. These individuals must navigate a rapidly changing and evolving system while also meeting the rigorous requirements of military service. This can be a difficult task, but with the help of an immigration lawyer, non-citizen veterans can successfully navigate the system and achieve their goals.
The biggest challenge for non-citizens in the U.S. military is that they may not be able to get all of the benefits and privileges that are typically given to citizens, such as access to education and health care. Many services have policies in place that create barriers for non-citizen service members when it comes to accessing these resources. Also, non-citizens may face challenges when applying for jobs in the U.S. military or elsewhere in civilian life.
Can You Get a Green Card by Joining the Military?
Joining the military can also be a great way to learn more about the United States and its customs. It can also give you valuable skills that you can use when seeking employment after leaving the military.
But, one cannot get a green card by joining the military. Joining the military is only one of several ways that an individual can become a lawful permanent resident (LPR). A green card can be obtained through other means. Such as getting married to a U.S. citizen, having a child in the U.S., or being employed for certain periods in American businesses.
Can i Join the Military with a 2-Year Green Card?
Fortunately, you can join the military with a two-year green card. The green card requirement is typically only a requirement for citizens of certain countries, but it is not always a requirement. If you are a citizen of a country that is not on the list, you can still join the military with a green card. However, you will likely have to go through additional steps. Such as providing documentation that you have been living in the country for a certain amount of time.
Final Thoughts:
Military service is an important part of American life and is often considered one of the most fulfilling jobs one can have. Not everyone can join the military without first securing a green card. Requirements for enlistment vary depending on the branch of the military.
But almost all require applicants to be United States citizens or permanent residents. If you are interested in joining the military but do not have a green card, there are still many ways you can serve your country. Now that you know about can you join the military without a green card or not, do a favor by commenting below your thoughts.
Frequently Asked Questions:
If you join the military can you get citizenship for your parents?
Yes, if you are a naturalized citizen or have served in the military for at least two years as a green card holder, your parents may be able to apply for citizenship. But still, there are some requirements to complete.
How long does it take to get citizenship through military?
Depending on the specific process involved, it can take anywhere from five years.
Can undocumented immigrants join the military?
Undocumented immigrants can join the military provided they have lived in the United States for a certain amount of time and meet other eligibility requirements.
Can an illegal immigrant join the army?
It is illegal for an unauthorized immigrant to join the military, but a few exceptions are. If you are in the military and your immigration status changes, you may be able to resign or be discharged.
