Becoming a Part of the US Army as a Green Card Holder
Serving in the US Army is a dream for many individuals, including those who are not born in the United States. As a Green Card holder, you may be eligible to join the US Army and take the first step towards becoming a US citizen. In this article, we will explore the requirements, benefits, and process of joining the US Army as a Green Card holder.
Requirements for Joining the US Army as a Green Card Holder
To be eligible to join the US Army as a Green Card holder, you must meet certain requirements:
- You must be a permanent resident of the United States (Green Card holder) for at least 2 years
- You must be between the ages of 17 and 35 (with some exceptions for older candidates)
- You must meet the Army’s education requirements, which typically include a high school diploma or equivalent
- You must meet the Army’s physical fitness standards
- You must pass a background check and obtain a security clearance
- You must take the Oath of Enlistment, which requires you to renounce any foreign allegiance and swear loyalty to the United States
Benefits of Joining the US Army as a Green Card Holder
Joining the US Army as a Green Card holder comes with numerous benefits, including:
- Path to citizenship: Serving in the US Army can expedite the citizenship process. After serving for one year, you may be eligible to apply for US citizenship.
- Education benefits: The Army offers education benefits, including the GI Bill, which can help you pay for college or vocational training.
- Career advancement: The Army offers career advancement opportunities, including training and education in a variety of fields.
- Healthcare benefits: The Army provides comprehensive healthcare benefits, including medical, dental, and pharmacy coverage.
- Housing and food allowance: The Army provides a housing and food allowance, which can help you cover living expenses.
Process of Joining the US Army as a Green Card Holder
The process of joining the US Army as a Green Card holder involves several steps:
- Meet with a recruiter: Find a local Army recruiter and discuss your eligibility and options.
- Take the ASVAB test: The ASVAB test measures your aptitude in various subjects, including math, reading, and technical skills.
- Take a physical fitness test: The Army requires you to pass a physical fitness test, which includes push-ups, sit-ups, and a 2-mile run.
- Get a medical exam: You will need to pass a medical exam to ensure you are physically fit for service.
- Enlist: If you are eligible, you will be given the opportunity to enlist in the US Army.
- Attend Basic Combat Training: After enlisting, you will attend Basic Combat Training (BCT), which is a 10-week training program that prepares you for Army life.
🔍 Note: The enlistment process can take several months, so it's essential to plan ahead and be patient.
MAVNI Program: A Special Path to Citizenship
The Military Accessions Vital to National Interest (MAVNI) program is a special program that allows certain non-citizens to join the US Army in exchange for expedited citizenship. To be eligible for the MAVNI program, you must:
- Be a non-citizen with a high-demand skill, such as language proficiency or medical expertise
- Meet the Army’s education and physical fitness requirements
- Pass a background check and obtain a security clearance
The MAVNI program offers a faster path to citizenship, with some candidates eligible to apply for citizenship after just one year of service.
Conclusion
Joining the US Army as a Green Card holder can be a rewarding experience that offers a path to citizenship, education benefits, and career advancement opportunities. While the process can be challenging, the benefits of serving in the US Army make it a worthwhile endeavor. If you are a Green Card holder interested in joining the US Army, we encourage you to explore your options and take the first step towards becoming a US citizen.
Can I join the US Army if I am a Green Card holder?
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Yes, as a Green Card holder, you may be eligible to join the US Army. However, you must meet certain requirements, including being a permanent resident for at least 2 years and meeting the Army’s education and physical fitness standards.
How long does it take to become a US citizen through the US Army?
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The time it takes to become a US citizen through the US Army varies depending on individual circumstances. However, serving in the US Army can expedite the citizenship process, with some candidates eligible to apply for citizenship after just one year of service.
What is the MAVNI program?
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The MAVNI program is a special program that allows certain non-citizens to join the US Army in exchange for expedited citizenship. To be eligible, you must have a high-demand skill, such as language proficiency or medical expertise, and meet the Army’s education and physical fitness requirements.
