People who share universal aspirations from several backgrounds worldwide have the desire to apply for citizenship in a new country through the basic methods already known to others.
Another opportunity to apply for citizenship is through military service, which not only allows individuals to serve and protect their new country but also secures a place among others in society.
The question of how long it takes to get citizenship through the military raises concerns. Without much ado, let’s address the burning desire to answer this question.
The timeline for obtaining citizenship in any country through citizenship is different from the other but generally takes several years. In countries like the United States, individuals need to serve for at least one year in the military before they can be eligible to apply for citizenship.
As a result of this, they have access to U.S. lawful permanent residence, known as a “green card,” before qualifying for citizenship.
This article aims to touch base on various paths to citizenship based on different countries, as well as get the reader abreast of requirements, procedures, and the timeframe it takes to become a citizen. Read on to gain value
Eligibility Criteria for Military Service and Citizenship
Meeting the specific criteria for the service should be considered first before being accepted into the military service as well as serving for some time and finally meeting the eligibility criteria.
Most of the requirements in countries like the United States include age requirements, lawful permanent resident status (green card holders), and passing background checks.
Applicants need to understand the essence of their prerequisites when it comes to determining how long it takes to get citizenship through the military.
Enlistment Process and Basic Training
Using the U.S. Armed Forces, for example, everything requires meeting the eligibility requirements as stated above.
Additional measures to be undertaken by applicants include legal permanent residency and a commitment to serve the armed forces of the host country.
The enlistment process involves selecting individuals for the military, and the eligible applicants or candidates can undergo the enlistment process, which involves a medical examination to check if they are physically fit and in good health, as well as other important tests that relate to the overall process.
After successfully being enlisted in the military, all enlisted soldiers will undergo basic and intensive training through different stages, which lasts for up to 8 to 13 weeks.
These trainings aim to instill teamwork, discipline, and military skills that will subsequently prepare them for their service commitment, leading them to citizenship.
Application for Citizenship through Military Service
This involves the initiation of getting citizenship through military service if the individual currently serves in the military.
The last point above explains how candidates could be eligible after getting enlisted in the military service, while this focuses on securing citizenship.
First things first: all eligible individuals willing to secure citizenship must fill out and submit Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization) if they are serving within the U.S. Armed Forces.
The essence of this form is to cater to the needs of those born outside of the United States by making them citizens through naturalization after satisfying the basic requirements. Therefore, they might become one either at birth or after birth.
However, a video providing a step-by-step guide on how to file your Application for Naturalization is available for applicants to watch and know how it’s being done if they find the process challenging.
After the citizenship application is successfully submitted, applicants undergo certain interviews with the country’s citizenship and immigration services, where they will also undergo certain background checks to determine their services and good character.
Let’s proceed to the next step.
Timeline for Naturalization and the Oath of Allegiance
Getting enlisted in the military force and applying for naturalization after one or two years of service in the same country typically involves a timeline that varies.
After the naturalization gets approved, individuals are one step closer to fully becoming their host country’s citizens.
They also have to attend a naturalization interview whose session would be slightly different from others, as well as take the citizenship test. Note that these will be conducted by a USCIS officer in the case of the United States.
If the above test is successful, the applicants move on to the next phase, which is the Oat of Allegiance ceremony which officially makes them full citizens. It serves as a pivotal step in the journey to achieving citizenship through military service.
However, if you are in the United States, it’s very important to know how To Prepare For the US Citizenship Oath Ceremony because you will be required to take it very seriously.
Also, note that taking the oath of allegiance is the final step of being a full-fleshed citizen; until you take the oath at your citizenship oath ceremony, you won’t be regarded as a citizen.
Additional Considerations and Benefits
There will be benefits attached to getting citizenship in any country around the world, and given the fact that you’re serving in the military to protect the country, you will be open to more opportunities from every angle.
Prominent among these benefits may include healthcare benefits, educational opportunities, and a unique sense of patriotism.
Therefore, it is important to look out for other benefits that may arise in the future.
FAQs
How long does it take to apply for citizenship?
The average processing time for naturalization, which is the process of becoming a citizen, is approximately 10 months. This duration is based on Boundless’ monthly analysis of government data.
During this period, applicants are required to complete various steps as the government reviews their application for naturalization before they can obtain citizenship.
How much is a green card?
The government filing fees for obtaining a family-based green card differ based on the applicant’s location. For those residing in the United States, the fee is $1,760, whereas for applicants living outside the United States, the fee is $1,200.
Does a green card expire?
Green cards typically do not have an expiration date, and most are valid for 10 years. However, if you have been granted conditional permanent resident status, your card is valid for 2 years. It is crucial to ensure that your Green Card is kept current and up-to-date.
How long do you have to stay in the US to get a green card?
To qualify for a green card, the applicant must meet additional eligibility criteria, including having resided in the United States for a minimum of three years after receiving a U visa.
Conclusion
The steps mentioned above determine how long it takes to get citizenship through the military. It should also be important to know that there might be factors affecting the timeline of obtaining citizenship while serving in the military force.
In the end, all efforts play out coupled with enjoying the benefits, just as the citizens of your new country do.
