Can Illegals Join the US Military?
The question of whether individuals who are in the United States illegally can join the military has been a topic of debate for many years. In this article, we will explore the current laws and regulations surrounding this issue.
What is the Legal Framework?
In the United States, there is no specific law that prohibits individuals who are in the country illegally from joining the military. However, the military does have rules and regulations in place to determine eligibility for service. According to the Selective Service Act of 1948, all male US citizens and male aliens living in the United States who are between the ages of 18 and 26 are required to register for the draft. [1]
Military Entrance Processing Command (MEPCOM)
The MEPCOM is responsible for processing all military recruits. The MEPCOM has a specific eligibility screening process that includes verifying a recruit’s citizenship and immigration status. [2] To be eligible to join the military, a person must:
• Be a US citizen
• Be a lawful permanent resident (LPR) who has been a resident of the United States for at least two years and meets certain physical and mental health requirements
• Have been granted Temporary Protected Status (TPS) or Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) by the Secretary of Homeland Security
What Happens to Undocumented Immigrants Who Join the Military?
While there is no specific law that prohibits undocumented immigrants from joining the military, the military has a policy of "expedited naturalization" for military members who are not US citizens. This policy allows non-citizen military members to apply for US citizenship after serving for a certain period of time, usually three years. [3]
Benefits of Military Service for Undocumented Immigrants
Joining the military can provide benefits for undocumented immigrants, including:
• Legal status: Through the expedited naturalization process, undocumented immigrants who join the military can apply for US citizenship and receive legal status
• Job opportunities: Military service can provide job training and skills that can be transferred to civilian life
• Education benefits: Military service can provide access to education benefits, including the GI Bill
• Healthcare benefits: Military service can provide access to healthcare benefits, including the TRICARE health insurance program
Controversies Surrounding the Issue
The issue of undocumented immigrants joining the military is controversial and has sparked debate among politicians, advocacy groups, and the general public. Some argue that allowing undocumented immigrants to join the military is a betrayal of US citizens who have served honorably. Others argue that the military should be a place where individuals can serve their country regardless of their immigration status.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while there is no specific law that prohibits undocumented immigrants from joining the military, the military has rules and regulations in place to determine eligibility for service. The military also has a policy of expedited naturalization for military members who are not US citizens. Joining the military can provide benefits for undocumented immigrants, including legal status, job opportunities, education benefits, and healthcare benefits. However, the issue remains controversial and has sparked debate among politicians, advocacy groups, and the general public.
References:
[1] 50 U.S.C. § 453[2] Military Entrance Processing Command (MEPCOM) Eligibility Guidelines
[3] US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Expedited Naturalization for Military Members
