Can non-citizens join the U.S. military?

I'm interested in enlisting but I'm not a U.S. citizen yet. Is it possible for non-citizens to join the U.S. military, and if so, what are the requirements or restrictions? I'm trying to plan out my options after high school.

Yes, non-U.S. citizens can join the U.S. military. However, there are specific requirements that must be met.

First, you must be a legal permanent resident, often referred to as a Green Card holder. Temporary residents, refugees, asylees, and undocumented non-citizens cannot enlist.

Second, while non-citizens can serve as enlisted personnel, officer positions are generally reserved for U.S. citizens. This means that for most non-citizens, the leadership positions and associated responsibilities/career advancement opportunities might be limited compared to those available to citizens.

Third, for security reasons, certain Military Occupational Specialties (MOS) require security clearance, which may not be available to non-citizens. This could limit the jobs you're able to perform in the military.

Lastly, it's also worth noting that serving in the U.S. military can potentially offer a path to citizenship. Under certain circumstances, military service may allow for expedited naturalization.

As with any form of service or career planning, it's always a good idea to reach out to a recruiter or career counselor for guidance. Those individuals can provide you with most accurate information regarding the enlistment and naturalization pathways for non-citizens interested in military service.