How can immigrants enlist in the military?

I'm an immigrant who's interested in joining the US military. What are the steps and legal requirements for an immigrant to enlist? Are there any special considerations or programs that I should be aware of?

Enlisting in the U.S. military as an immigrant generally involves a few key steps and requirements. Keep in mind, this differs depending on whether you are a permanent resident or non-immigrant.

If you are a permanent resident of the U.S., you can enlist in the military the same way as a U.S. citizen. You'll need to pass a physical exam, have a high school diploma or equivalent, and satisfy the age criteria (17-35 years depending on the branch). Then you'll need to take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test, pass a background check, and choose a military occupation or career field.

For non-immigrants, the process is a bit different. In general, non-citizens must legal residents to enlist. However, there are exceptions. One such exception is the Military Accessions Vital to the National Interest (MAVNI) program, which allows certain non-citizens who are legally present in the United States to join the U.S. military and apply immediately for U.S. citizenship without first having to obtain lawful permanent residence. This program, when active, is for individuals who possess critical language and culture skills in specific languages including, but not limited to, Arabic, Chinese, Hindi, Kurdish, Nepalese, Pashto, and Russian.

Please note this program’s status can change, so check current regulations and consult with a military recruiter for more specific, updated information.

In all cases, enlisting in the military can serve as a route to expedited U.S. citizenship. The Naturalization at Basic Training Initiative allows non-citizen enlistees to naturalize when they graduate from basic training. Under this initiative, the entire naturalization process – from initial application to the oath ceremony – can be completed during basic training.

Remember, each branch of the military has its own specific requirements, so it's recommended to speak with a military recruiter to understand the specifics for your situation and intended branch.

I do hope this provides you with some understanding of the path to enlistment as an immigrant. But always remember to consult with a legal expert or military representative to have the most accurate and updated information.