Have you ever wanted to serve in the US Army but felt deterred because you aren’t a US citizen? What if I were to tell you that you can become a US soldier without having to be a US citizen? Well, this guide is here for you. You will be exposed to the step by step guide on how to join US Army without Citizenship.

The US Army has provision for those who are non-citizens to serve in the Army.  Every year, more than 8,000 green card holders but who are non-U.S. citizens join the military. So, what can you do to become a US soldier without having to be a citizen? We will tell you everything you will need to know here. Just keep reading and see how to join US army as a foreigner.

How To Join US Army Without Citizenship

So, what are the steps you can follow to become a US citizen? Let’s find out here below. To join US army without citizenship.

Requirements For Joining US Army As Non-Citizen/Foreigner

Below are the requirements you must meet up with.

1. You must possess the Green Card. The green card is different from the US Citizenship. See the major differences between Green Card & US Citizenship here. The US Green Card confers permanent residency status on the person. So, once you are a Green Card holder as a non-citizenship, you can apply to join the US army.
2. When a person wants to enlist in the military, his name is run through a national immigration database. If the person is determined not to have status as a citizen or green card holder, he will be turned away. It is also possible the person could be referred to the immigration authorities.
3. You will be expected to meet up with the educational and physical fitness qualifications expected of US army applicants.
4. Furthermore, although you can be allowed to join the US army without citizenship, you won’t be allowed to hold positions as a commissioner or as an official member of the army.
5. You are at least 17-years-old and no older than 35. That applies to regular Army, reserves and the National Guard.
6. You are in good health.
7. Also, you have a high school diploma, though a GED may suffice.
8. You pass the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery test.
9.  If you want to become an officer, you must be a college graduate.

Also See: Who Can Apply For US Green Card?

Limitations Of Non-Citizen US Army

If you join the U.S. Army as a non-citizen, enlisting can speed up your path to full citizenship.

1. Until you become a citizen, your military career is limited.
2. You cannot re-enlist, obtain a security clearance or qualify for overseas assignments except as a citizen. If you want to become an American citizen, military service waives some of your requirements: For example, you do not have to be physically in the U.S. if you are stationed overseas.

Also See: Major Differences Between US citizenship & Green Card

More than 100,000 immigrants have been naturalized through military service since 9/11. As of February 2018, military policy has put brakes on the process with more intensive background checks and slower approval times. New recruits cannot start basic training until after the background check is complete, which can take up to a year or more. Unless the policy changes, this may make enlisting tougher than you would have found it a few years ago.