Naturalization Through Military Service

Special provisions of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) authorize U.S. Citizenship and 
Immigration Services (USCIS) to expedite the application and naturalization process for current 
members of the U.S. armed forces and recently discharged members. Generally, qualifying military 
service includes service with one of the following branches: Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, 
Coast Guard, certain components of the National Guard and the Selected Reserve of the Ready 
Reserve. 

In addition, spouses of members of the U.S. armed forces who are or will be deployed may be 
eligible for expedited naturalization. Other provisions of the law also allow certain spouses to 
complete the naturalization process abroad.

Qualifications

A member of the U.S. armed forces must meet the requirements and qualifications                                  
to become a citizen of the United States. He or she must demonstrate:

• Good moral character
• Knowledge of the English language
• Knowledge of U.S. government and history (civics), and
• Attachment to the United States by taking an Oath of                                                                           Allegiance to the U.S. Constitution                                                                                                                                                             

For more information on how to become a U.S. Citizen through Military Service,                                           please contact our office to speak with an naturalization attorney.