Naturalization Through Military Service – Application Steps

Looking to become a U.S. citizen through military service? Whether you’re actively serving or a veteran, the process can be quicker and more rewarding than standard naturalization. Most applicants are full-time active-duty members or reservists, though some veterans apply from civilian life.

There’s no cost for filing, and eligibility typically requires honorable service, 1+ years of experience in the Armed Forces, and the ability to complete an interview in English. Work is mostly on-base or at USCIS offices, with some paperwork handled remotely online.

Eligibility for Military Naturalization:

Military members can apply for U.S. citizenship through two main pathways under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA):

Pathway	Who It Applies To	Key Notes
Peacetime Service (INA 328)	Served honorably for at least 1 year (active or veteran)	Must be 18+, have good moral character, understand English, and pass U.S. civics test
Hostile Service (INA 329)	Served honorably during a designated period of hostility	No age or residency requirement; only one year of good moral character before application needed

Cost:

Active or veteran military members are exempt from the $760 USCIS filing fee.

Cost Type	Amount
USCIS Filing Fee	$0 for military members
Other Expenses	Travel, document copies, or notarizations (varies)

Tip: Save receipts for any incidental expenses; some may be reimbursable through military support services.

Timeline:

While every case varies, here’s an estimated processing timeline for Form N-400:

Step	Typical Duration
Form N-400 Review	~5.5 months (USCIS average)
Background Check & Fingerprints	2–4 weeks
Interview & English/Civics Test	1–2 months after review
Oath of Allegiance Ceremony	Scheduled shortly after approval

Note: Spouses of military members or those serving during hostile periods may qualify for expedited naturalization.

U.S. Citizenship for Veterans

U.S. citizenship for veterans provides a fast-track pathway for military personnel who have served honorably in the United States Armed Forces. The law recognizes the service and sacrifices of veterans, allowing them to acquire citizenship more quickly than through standard naturalization processes.

Key Benefits:

• Expedited naturalization process, sometimes without the usual residency requirements
• Eligibility to apply even if stationed overseas
• Recognition of service with a streamlined application process

Eligibility Requirements:

• Honorable service in the U.S. Armed Forces
• Meet good moral character standards
• Demonstrate knowledge of U.S. history and government (civics test may be required)
• File Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization) or N-426 (Request for Certification of Military Service)

Citizenship Through Armed Forces:

Citizenship through armed forces allows both current and former members of the U.S. military to gain citizenship under special provisions of U.S. immigration law. This includes active-duty service members, reservists, and veterans who meet service requirements.

Key Provisions:

• Service during peacetime or wartime can make one eligible for expedited citizenship
• Certain periods of military service waive usual residency and physical presence requirements
• Spouses and children of service members may also qualify for special considerations

Application Process:

• Submit required forms (N-400, N-426) with proof of military service
• Attend an interview and take the Oath of Allegiance
• Receive citizenship certificate and U.S. passport eligibility

Benefits:

• Fast-tracked citizenship without lengthy waiting periods
• Ability to sponsor family members for immigration
• Full rights and benefits of U.S. citizenship

Check Also: U.S. Citizenship Through Naturalization

How to Apply for Naturalization Through Military Service?

1. Peacetime Service (INA 328)

To qualify, applicants must:

• Be 18 or older
• Be a lawful permanent resident at the time of interview
• Have good moral character for at least 5 years
• Have served honorably for at least 1 year
• Understand, speak, read, and write English
• Pass a U.S. civics test
• Support and uphold the U.S. Constitution

Serving abroad counts toward physical presence if done honorably during the 5-year period.

2. Hostile Service (INA 329)

To qualify, applicants must:

• Have served honorably during a period of hostility
• Demonstrate good moral character for at least 1 year
• Understand and speak English
• Know U.S. history and government
• Support the Constitution
• May be any age and do not need residency requirements

Branches included: Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Space Force, Coast Guard, and National Guard (federal reserve component).

Required Forms:

Form N-400

The main application for U.S. citizenship.

• Indicate military service as the basis for naturalization
• Can be submitted online or by mail
• Must include all necessary documents

USCIS Form N-400 Guide

Form N-426

Confirms honorable military service.

• Certified by a military official if actively serving
• For discharged applicants, submit discharge papers such as DD Form 214 or NGB Form 22

USCIS Form N-426 Guide

Interview and Oath of Allegiance:

After USCIS reviews the forms:

• Background check and fingerprints
• Interview at a local field office
• Demonstrate English proficiency and civics knowledge
• Receive Oath of Allegiance ceremony date

Pro Tip: Practice the civics test and review interview questions beforehand to avoid delays.

Practical Tips for Military Applicants:

• Ask your chain of command about military assistance for filing forms.
• Ensure all service and discharge documents are accurate.
• File within 6 months after honorable discharge to bypass some residency requirements.
• Keep copies of all submissions for your records.

Conclusion:

Military service provides a fast and rewarding path to U.S. citizenship, recognizing your dedication and sacrifice. By following the steps for peacetime or hostile service, submitting the required forms, and completing the interview and Oath of Allegiance, applicants can gain citizenship efficiently. This streamlined process offers full rights, benefits, and the opportunity to sponsor family members as a proud U.S. citizen.

Frequently Asked Questions: