Military Spouses Serving Abroad
Thinking about becoming a U.S. citizen but worried about being stationed abroad with your active-duty spouse? Fear not! Military spouses can apply for naturalization even while overseas. Here's what you need to know:
Who Qualifies?
The good news is, the requirements for military spouses are similar to those living in the U.S. To be eligible, you'll need to be married to a U.S. citizen serving in the armed forces, have your green card for at least three years, and meet other general criteria.
Living Overseas Doesn't Hurt!
The time you spend abroad with your spouse actually counts towards your residency and physical presence requirements for naturalization. This means living overseas doesn't slow down your path to becoming a U.S. citizen.
Applying for Naturalization:
The process starts with submitting Form N-400, the Application for Naturalization, to USCIS. Being a military spouse might give you some perks, like waived application fees and faster processing of your application!
Fingerprints, Interview, and Oath:
Just like everyone else, you'll need to have fingerprints taken and attend an interview with USCIS. Depending on your location, this might happen at a U.S. military base overseas or a USCIS office abroad.
Becoming a U.S. Citizen Overseas:
Once your application is approved, the final step is taking the Oath of Allegiance. In some cases, these ceremonies are held at U.S. military bases overseas, allowing you to become a U.S. citizen while stationed abroad with your spouse!
Important Note:
Requirements can vary depending on your specific situation and military status. It's always a good idea to check the latest information and consider seeking guidance from your military legal assistance office or an immigration attorney. They can help ensure a smooth and successful naturalization journey!
Need help? On us immigration consultants can help you with your process, paperwork and all what you need to submit your application successfully!
Remember, becoming a U.S. citizen while stationed overseas is totally possible. With some planning and maybe some expert advice, you can be well on your way to becoming a U.S. citizen alongside your spouse.