In previous article, we discussed a number of recent U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) policy changes aimed at making naturalization more accessible. This article focuses specifically on policy changes aimed at making naturalization more accessible for members of the U.S. armed forces.
Veterans Residing Outside of the United States
Members of the U.S. armed forces who served honorably during specifically designated periods of hostilities and meet all other statutory requirements for naturalization may be eligible to naturalize. The rule will apply even apply to veterans who were never long-term permanent residents, and those residing outside the United States at the time of applying for naturalization (there is generally a rule requiring three months’ presence in the U.S. at time of applying for naturalization).
Overseas Military Naturalization Process
USCIS is utilizing video capabilities for interviews and naturalization ceremonies for eligible military members and their qualifying family members stationed overseas.
Children of U.S. Armed Forces Members or U.S. Government Employees Born outside of the U.S.
Before March 26, 2020, a child born outside of the U.S. had to fulfill three requirements, without exception, in order to gain automatic U.S. citizenship:
1) At least one parent of the child must be a U.S. Citizen,
2) The child is under the age of eighteen, and
3) The child is residing in the United States in the legal and physical custody of the citizen parent pursuant to a lawful admission for permanent residence.
As of March 26, 2020, the third requirement is fulfilled if the child is residing in the legal and physical custody of a citizen parent who is stationed and residing abroad as a member of the Armed Forces of the United States.
If you have questions about any of the new policy changes, or have any other immigration-related concerns, please contact our attorneys at the Law Offices of Azita M. Mojarad. Our experienced immigration attorneys stand ready to assist you.