The Naturalization Process for Military Spouses & Children

The naturalization process for military spouses and children is pretty straightforward and less complex than other forms of naturalization.  If you are the spouse of a member of the military, then you and your children may be eligible for expedited naturalization services.

Applying for Naturalization

Under section 319 (b) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, the dependents of military members can apply for naturalization in the event that the military spouse is about to be deployed.  There are a few requirements that the spouse must meet in order to be naturalized under this section of the Immigration and Nationality act.  They are:

• Must be in the United States at the time of naturalization application submission
• Be able to read, write and speak English
• Must have a working knowledge of United States history and government
• Must be of good moral character
• Be at least 18 or older

Section 319 (e) of the Immigration and Nationality Act

Another method for a spouse of a military member to be naturalized is under section 319 (e) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, which enables eligible military spouses to get naturalized overseas without having to come to the United States to start the process.  There are few requirements that must be met.  They are:

• Must reside overseas with military member in a marriage
• Must meet all requirements of sections 316 (a) or 319 (a) of the Immigration and Nationality Act – where 319(a) requires alien spouses to be permanent residents in the U.S. for three years and section 316 (a) requires spouses to be permanent residents for five years prior to filing for naturalization.

Section 322 Of the Immigration and Nationality Act

The above are a few desired requirements for spouses of military members who need an expedited naturalization process due to the military member being deployed.  Section 322 under the Immigration and Nationality Act allows for children of military personnel to become naturalized United States citizens.  Additionally, they would not have to come to the United States in order to get the naturalization process going.  The provision stipulates that the military parent can apply for their children (who were born outside of the United States) to become naturalized.  There are a few requirements that must be met.  They are:

• Child must be under 18 years old
• Child must be  living  with the United States citizen parent outside of the United States
• One parent must be a United States citizen

Getting Help

For more information on the eligibility requirements for naturalization, contact an experienced US immigration attorney who can provide you with assistance in determining your eligibility for naturalization and who can help you choose the right process for you.