Expedited Naturalization for U.S. Military Members and Veterans

U.S. law provides two special naturalization pathways for military members and veterans that significantly reduce or eliminate the standard residency requirements that apply to civilian applicants. These pathways are found in INA Sections 328 and 329 and have been available since World War II, reflecting Congress's recognition of military service as a contribution to the country that should be honored.

INA Section 329: Service During Hostilities

INA Section 329 applies to service members who serve honorably in the U.S. Armed Forces during a period of designated military operations. This is the most commonly used military naturalization pathway because it removes the requirement to be a lawful permanent resident (Green Card holder) before naturalizing. Under Section 329, a non-citizen who serves honorably during a qualifying military operation may apply for naturalization regardless of their current immigration status, including as a nonimmigrant visa holder.

The Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Homeland Security designate qualifying periods. Operations that have been designated as qualifying under Section 329 include Operation Enduring Freedom, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and the Global War on Terrorism, among others. Check USCIS's current list for all designated operations and their qualifying dates.

The minimum service requirement is one day of honorable active duty service on or after the qualifying start date for the designated operation. There is no minimum duration of service beyond that single day, though the service must be honorable.

INA Section 328: Peacetime Service

INA Section 328 applies to service members and veterans who served honorably during peacetime (periods not designated under Section 329). Unlike Section 329, Section 328 does require you to be a lawful permanent resident before applying. However, Section 328 reduces the standard physical presence requirement: one year of honorable active duty service fulfills the residency requirement, and you may apply while still on active duty.

English and Civics Tests

Military naturalization applicants are still required to pass the English and civics tests unless they qualify for the standard age-based or disability-based exemptions. Military service itself does not waive the English or civics requirement. You should prepare for the civics test the same way as any other applicant.

Good Moral Character Requirement

Military naturalization applicants must also demonstrate good moral character. Military service is considered a positive factor in the good moral character evaluation, but it does not excuse disqualifying criminal history. If you have any arrests or convictions, they will be reviewed under the same good moral character standards that apply to civilian applicants.

Required Documents for Military Naturalization

• Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization), indicating your military service in Part 3.
• Form N-426 (Request for Certification of Military or Naval Service), which must be certified by your branch of service confirming your service dates, character of service, and status.
• Form DD-214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty), if you have been discharged or separated from service. Active duty members may use a statement of service from their commanding officer in lieu of DD-214.

Who Is NOT Eligible Under Military Provisions

Applicants with a dishonorable discharge from military service are permanently ineligible for naturalization under the military provisions. Applicants with other-than-honorable discharges may or may not qualify depending on the nature of the discharge; these cases are reviewed individually. Posthumous citizenship is granted automatically under INA Section 329A to non-citizens who die during honorable service in a designated military operation.