Can non-American citizens join the military?
The answer to this question is a resounding yes! While the military primarily recruits and employs citizens of the United States, there are certain circumstances where non-U.S. citizens can join and serve the military.
Types of Non-U.S. Citizen Eligibility
Non-American citizens who are eligible to join the military can fit into one of the following categories:
Permanent Resident: Also known as Green Card holders, this group is eligible for non-commissioned officer programs in the Army, Army Reserve, and Army National Guard. They do not have to have obtained citizenship or be eligible to apply for it.
Citizens of Canada or Mexico: Born citizens of Canada or Mexico, with a parent born in the United States or naturalized as a U.S. citizen, can apply for enlistment without meeting the required periods of physical presence or honorable military service.
Asylees/Refugees: Eligible refugees or asylees with a letter from the Director of Central Intelligence (DCI) are considered a special class for recruitment.
- NATO, Gendarme, and International Students: International students, gendarme students, or current or former members of recognized foreign militaries enlisted or commissioned under section 2241 of 10 USC may join the military.
Pre-requisites for Non-US Citizens to Join
Applicants under these categories still need to meet certain criteria to be eligible:
| Pre-requisites |
|---|
| Must not be ineligible for appointment and enlistment in the service under chapter 3 |
| Must not be engaged in labor disputes |
| Must have a good and wholesome discharge from previous Military service, if applicable. |
| Must meet applicable background screening requirements. |
Requirements for Green Card Holders
To apply as a Green Card Holder:
| Requirements |
|---|
| Age requirements: must be at least 17 years and six months, but no older than 35. |
| Education requirements: high school diploma or equivalency (GED). |
| Citizenship requirements: applicants must show proof of being eligible for a green card to obtain non-commissioned officer enlistment in Army, Army Reserve, or Army National Guard. |
Restrictions for non-US Citizens
There are specific restrictions for non-American citizens, including:
• Civilians living in areas of hostile and high-intensity combat can only serve in a Civilian-Contracted Individual role, not in Commissioned or Non-Commissioned Officer roles.
Application and Enlistment Process for Non-US Citizens
Step 1: Pre-qualification Testing
- Take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test, provided by a Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS). Passing this test ensures further testing in the following process.
Step 2: Pre-qualification interview
- Attend a prescreening interview with a Recruiters or an authorized officer from the branch desired. Be prepared to supply detailed biographic information and proof of alien registration, if applicable.
Step 3: Clearing for clearance
- Pass medical screening, background investigation (may require an appointment), and provide copies of previous military records.
Step 4: Enrollment and Orientation
After acceptance, follow regular enlistment procedures for completion of all necessary steps until orientation is complete. Additional procedures apply for naturalized U.S. citizenship acquisition while on active duty service.
Conclusion
Though limited to specific circumstances and eligibility requirements, non-US citizens can join the American military, contributing their talents, skills, and diverse background to national defense and ensuring global cooperation. While applications for Green Card Holders may take longer due to citizenship eligibility, understanding this possibility fosters cross-border connections.
