There are benefits that come with serving in the United States armed forces. For non-citizens, this includes the potential to secure a path to citizenship. While these individuals often get an expedited path to a green card, not everyone who serves ultimately becomes a U.S. citizen.
In order to protect your rights, it is vital that you speak with a lawyer in Lombard about naturalization through military duty. Serious risks come with military service, and protecting yourself is a must. Reach out to a dedicated citizenship and naturalization attorney today to learn more.
United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) offers certain veterans the opportunity to become naturalized citizens based on their military service. Not only that, veterans can also waive certain requirements related to remaining physically within the borders of the United States for a set amount of time before becoming a citizen.
Not everyone in Lombard will qualify for naturalization via military service. To qualify, a person must serve a minimum amount of time in the armed forces while meeting certain other requirements:
It is important to note that this opportunity is only available to individuals who are already legally residing in the United States. Undocumented immigrants are not eligible to secure expedited naturalization despite their willingness to serve in the military.
Any immigrant who intends to apply for naturalization after serving in the U.S. military must first complete a series of steps. This primarily involves completing several forms and providing supporting documentation. A Lombard attorney can assist with the process of applying for naturalization based on military service.
First, applicants will need to submit a document called Form N-426, also known as a Request for Certification of Military or Naval Service. As the name suggests, this provides USCIS with proof that the applicant served in the military. They must also submit Form N-400, which is the application for naturalization.
Applying for citizenship requires more than just the forms. Most people will also need to submit supporting documentation that shows USCIS that they are entitled to naturalize. These documents can include passports, visas, and relevant military records.
Finally, applicants will have to attend an interview with immigration officials. This is more than a formality, as the answers given to the questions can impact the outcome of the case. After the interview, all that is left is to wait for a response from USCIS.
In addition to securing citizenship for themselves, non-residents in the military could also help their immediate relatives naturalize. Just like those who serve, their spouses who live abroad may also be eligible to waive the requirements related to physical presence and continuous residence in the United States. This means a spouse is not penalized when they follow their husband or wife overseas.
Additionally, benefits exist for surviving family members of service members who passed away during military hostilities. Any time a person serving in the military dies due to an injury or illness sustained in combat, that person can be awarded citizenship posthumously. For the two years after their passing, the deceased servicemember’s spouse and children can apply for a green card based on this citizenship award.
When it comes to non-citizens serving in the military, the path to naturalization is clear. You have the chance to become a citizen of this country without dealing with unfair delays caused by residency requirements. Call today to discuss Lombard naturalization through military duty.
