Joining the US Military, as a Non-US Citizen

[Challenger]

Hey guys,

Firstly, I'd like to establish the fact that I have an existing account on the forums, but I'd like to keep my identity withheld, due to the nature of the question I'm asking. In a sense, I'm asking this in confidence.

I am wondering how one can pursue joining the US Military (particularly Army) as a Non-US Citizen, and what steps one would have to take to do this.

To give you a bit of background information about myself, I am currently 18 years old, turning 19 in December, and I was born, raised, and currently reside in the United Kingdom. I am at the point in my life where I have decided what I want to do, and where I want to go. I want a career in the military, I want a job where I can be proud of what I am doing. I want to secure a good future for my long standing girlfriend, who I plan to propose to early next year, and I want to secure a good future if we ever start a family.

Some may ask why aren't I pursuing a career in my own country's military? Firstly, as I have stated I would like to pursue a career in the military, and I feel that a career in the US Army would be the most beneficial, both for myself in terms of the training, experience and opportunities and also for my family. As a career soldier, I'd like to do my job with the best equipment possible, and the US Army would provide that. I feel that the US military is at the forefront of keeping the peace in the world, and fighting for good. US troops are operating in some of the most dangerous areas and situations in order to help people who are in need. I want to be part of that.

I'd like to pursue US Citizenship, and hope one day to raise a family in the US. I have always been very respective of American culture, and ideals, and would like to one day raise my kids with those ideals. My mother left her family and friends in the Phillipines to come to the UK to give her planned family a better life. I would like to do the same for mine.

Any and all advice would be greatly appreciated.

Kind regards,

Anonymous

[ed316]

As long you have a green card and have no felonies it's pretty much easy. You have to be living in the US when you enlist. The green card (permanent resident alien card) is the most important thing to have.

[Maverick77]

Im from Canada and also 18

Ive heard the Marines is easier to get into for foreigners than the U.S Army

can anyone shed some light on this and give advice on how to go about it if I were to do that

[ed316]

PERMANENT RESIDENT ALIEN CARD (Green Card).... That is the biggest hurdle. You have to have one. An immigrant is a foreign national who has been granted the privilege of living and working permanently in the United States. You must go through a multi-step process to become an immigrant. In most cases, USCIS must first approve an immigrant petition for you, usually filed by an employer or relative. Then, an immigrant visa number must be available to you, even if you are already in the United States. After that, if you are already in the United States, you may apply to adjust to permanent resident status (If you are outside the United States, you will be notified to go to the local U.S. consulate to complete the processing for an immigrant visa.)For an excellent overview of immigration, please see the chapter and tables on immigrants in the Immigration Statistical Yearbook (http://uscis.gov/graphics/shared/aboutus/statistics/ybpage.htm). For more information on immigrant status based on employment, please see How Do I Apply for Immigrant Status Based on Employment? (http://uscis.gov/graphics/howdoi/immstatemp.htm). In addition, please see our index of Infolinks (http://uscis.gov/graphics/faqs.htm) that will provide information on bringing relatives to live in the United States. For more information on visa numbers, please see the How Do I Get an Immigrant Visa Number? (http://uscis.gov/graphics/howdoi/immvisa.htm).
Where Can I Find the Law?
The Immigration and Nationality Act is a law that governs immigration in the United States. For the part of the law concerning most types of permanent resident status, please see INA § 245 (http://uscis.gov/lpBin/lpext.dll/?f=id&id=slb-act245). The specific eligibility requirements and procedures for adjusting to permanent residence status are included in the Code of Federal Regulations [CFR] at 8 CFR § 245 (http://uscis.gov/lpBin/lpext.dll/?f=id&id=slb-cfrp245).

[KEEPER0311]

This is what i've managed to find on enlisting as a non-citizen. Good luck with your prosuit of a career, and hopefully a life here in the states.

http://usmilitary.about.com/od/joiningthemilitary/a/enlstandards_2.htm

[DnA]

The US Marines allow a certain number of non US citizens/non green card holders to enlist. To qualify you must be canadian born, aswell as your parents and grandparents.

If you are a regestured native you can also enlist in the US Military without having to go through immigration, etc


For everyone else, you must have atleast a green card, to get you you need to have an immediate family member to sponser you, this family member must have a valid green card or be a US citizen. Some countries qualify for a green card lottery aswell.


If you do not meet the above criteria, your SOL on joining the US Military as far as I know.

[DE6]

The US Marines allow a certain number of non US citizens/non green card holders to enlist. To qualify you must be canadian born, aswell as your parents and grandparents.



Is that official policy? Or is it another hearsay story of recruiters bending the rules?
Because the people who've related their attempts first-hand to me were all turned back and told to come back when they have their GC.

I'm not questioning your claim, I'm just curious about it's nature.

[DnA]

Is that official policy? Or is it another hearsay story of recruiters bending the rules?
Because the people who've related their attempts first-hand to me were all turned back and told to come back when theyr have their GC.

I'm not questioning your claim, I'm just curious about it's nature.


Got that from a recruiter and i know of someone enlisting this way also. But there is a limited number of people allowed to enlist this way every year.

[ed316]

I was a non-citizen when I enlisted and basically the recruiter told me as long as you have a green card and no felonies you can signed up.

[CONSERVATIVE53]

WARPIG might be able to give you some information. I'd try giving him a PM.

[Brookes]

Hey guys,
Some may ask why aren't I pursuing a career in my own country's military? Firstly, as I have stated I would like to pursue a career in the military, and I feel that a career in the US Army would be the most beneficial, both for myself in terms of the training, experience and opportunities and also for my family. As a career soldier, I'd like to do my job with the best equipment possible, and the US Army would provide that. I feel that the US military is at the forefront of keeping the peace in the world, and fighting for good. US troops are operating in some of the most dangerous areas and situations in order to help people who are in need. I want to be part of that.





Hmm interesting, and here i was going to leave my country to join the British army for just about the same reasons..

[nognig]

Got that from a recruiter and i know of someone enlisting this way also. But there is a limited number of people allowed to enlist this way every year.

If you are Canadian and you are interested in joining the US Marines, check out this thread:

Link (http://forums.army.ca/forums/index.php/topic,32898.0.html)

NN

[DnA]

If you are Canadian and you are interested in joining the US Marines, check out this thread:

Link (http://forums.army.ca/forums/index.php/topic,32898.0.html)

NN

The Recruiter who posted that hasn't been on the board much lately, so if anyone is interested in the criteria for joining the US Marines as a Canadian, you can send me a PM, an i can send it out to you.

[Sierrakitten]

US Embassy web page has a link for recruiters.
http://www.usembassy.org.uk/dao/enlistus.html
Best thing is to go straight to the source for info.

[Saint]

I have a question. If Canadians can indeed join the US Marines w/out a green card, why would it not be the same for the US Army or Navy or Air Force? Don't they all fall under the Department of Defense? This just seems strange? I could be wrong, but has anyone actually talked to a Marine Recruiter in person about this? Just curious! Thanks!

[CFD Ambos]

Challenger,

1) If you don't have a green card, get the info from the USCIS site. Calculate with at least 2 years of paperwork in the best cases (=if your parents are in the US, etc...). If not, forget it, the US is the western country with the worst administration system and the most stupid laws (otherwise they'd have created a foreign legion since the day draft was over).
2) Joining without green card has been done, but such cases were illegal and very, very scarce. About the canucks joining the USMC, I've got no idea.
3) I can't understand that you've got the opportunity to join the best infantry in the world (the british one), and instead of this you want to join the US Army ! (Nothing against the US Army, but the british Army is much, much better). The only thing that will be better in the US is the gear, the logistics, the food, but surely not the training. The british military is deployed in the same places as the US Military, sometimes even more dangerous ones (Sierra Leone, and now we'll see about Sudan).

I've tried myself several times to join the USMC, each time I get the same answer : "where's your green card, sir ?". Even though the recruiters told I seemed "good to go" and I've got plenty of training.

All other members,

Noticed how many people create such threads ? Noticed that the US Military, though having dramatically reduced its manpower, can't find enough people ? Noticed that nobody gives a **** about it in the US politics ?

[Midav]

Challenger,

3) I can't understand that you've got the opportunity to join the best infantry in the world (the british one), and instead of this you want to join the US Army ! (Nothing against the US Army, but the british Army is much, much better).

I understand that is your opinion and will not argue that. But I can't shake the feeling that a pissing contest has been started rofl

[szr]

^ Sounds like someone is bitter about their experience trying to join up.

Anyway, I wish you luck, 'Challenger'. No country or military could ask for more than people who genuinely want to be a part of it.

[CFD Ambos]

People here are supposed to be intelligent enough to recognize it. It's so obvious that I haven't thought a single second about a pissing contest starting because of such a comment.
By the way, you're still allowed to tell I can't judge because I've only trained with Americans yet. This sentence getting non-valid in January because I'll have some training with the Brits by then.

[Midav]

People here are supposed to be intelligent enough to recognize it. It's so obvious that I haven't thought a single second about a pissing contest starting because of such a comment.
By the way, you're still allowed to tell I can't judge because I've only trained with Americans yet. This sentence getting non-valid in January because I'll have some training with the Brits by then.

An opinion is an opinion is an opinion :)

My personal belief is that the Israelis have the best infantry.

But it's just that, an opinion! Anway, this is way off topic and hope no pissing contest is started.

[WARPIG]

This is a recurring question on this board.. and the recurring answer is the Permanent Residency. This is only half of the answer though. A green card will open the door to some branches of service but only to a limited number of jobs. Any job requiring Security Clearance will be off limits until you gain Citizenship. Your military career will also have a wear out date of typicall 8 years unless you recieve Citizenship.

Security is the reason for this requirement for US military accession.

[CFD Ambos]

THX Warpig for the info complements.

Just think about the FFL....they don't have security problems because their selection and training are based upon the human factor, which the Americans seem to have forgotten....

[ash933]

Go into your local Armed Forces Careers Office and say "I'd like some information on the Royal Marines". Best bet.

[Parzival]

OMG 19 years old and getting married?! Wow

[WARPIG]

THX Warpig for the info complements.

Just think about the FFL....they don't have security problems because their selection and training are based upon the human factor, which the Americans seem to have forgotten....

I sort of don't think a force as big as our armed forces should be making enlistment decisions on the human factor. FFL does have security problems like any armed force but when you look at the scale in comparison.. well you get the idea.

[CFD Ambos]

of course; youre right but what about creating an american Legion.... about 10.000 men is not much. This has already been proposed by experts.

[Herrmannek]

So i was considering the possible ways to get into USA :)
As Diversity visa lotery is no no in this and future years, geting legal job in the US is quite hard, marrying a American women even more and its not moraly correct way to do that things anyway so I was thinking about enlisting... I know that this topic was disscused before, but I Think i haven't understood everything. I know there are non-citizens serving.. but hell how they got in? What are conditions, And if this is Possible for Pole to meet that conditions... Thanks in advance...

[mack pl]

Yoda say green card you need

[Herrmannek]

Thats what I've heard, but i want something on the paper, because I have some contradictory info...

[mack pl]

Ive heard also about student visa, but I doubt they accept it

[Macs.]

You need a green card.
And even with the green card you can't do any job in the US Army. (For example, becoming a pilot)

And the US Army is not gonna help you getting a green card.

[Herrmannek]

that sucks by BIG s :)

[Macs.]

"CFD Ambos" recently tried to join up without a green card.

Read his story here: http://www.militaryphotos.net/forums/showthread.php?t=52016

[Herrmannek]

Yup, i read his post, but haven't understood it at the time...But as I understood he doesn't have green card, and he tried to enlist with turist visa?

What about becaming an "legal" imigrant? Is reaching the shore done by swimming is good way. or it is only for Cubans, and I need to get Cuban citizenship first?

[WARPIG]

I am a recruiter. The only way you can enlist is if you have permanent residency. Nothing less. No branch of service is different. Even with permanent residency, you must be a citizen within 8 years or you will be released.

[mack pl]

Even with permanent residency, you must be a citizen within 8 years or you will be released.

Im not sure if i understand you correctly...If I become USA citizen, I have to wait 8 years before I could enlisting army?

[Herrmannek]

Warpig and what do you know about swiming to USA(like Cubans do)? Would it do the trick in geting permanent residency permit?

[WARPIG]

Im not sure if i understand you correctly...If I become USA citizen, I have to wait 8 years before I could enlisting army?
No.

You answered it yourself. If you become a citizen you enlist like the rest of us. But, if you are only a permanent resident (green card) you will be prevented from re-enlistment past the 8 year mark unless you become a US citizen.

[WARPIG]

Warpig and what do you know about swiming to USA(like Cubans do)? Would it do the trick in geting permanent residency permit?

no

Requesting political asylum may get you a permanent stay, but simply swimming to the US doesn't cut it.

[mack pl]

No.

You answered it yourself. If you become a citizen you enlist like the rest of us. But, if you are only a permanent resident (green card) you will be prevented from re-enlistment past the 8 year mark unless you become a US citizen.

ahhh, thanks mate

[Herrmannek]

So I'll need to became Canadian then :)

[Fiber]

With the current discussion on illegal immigration - Has there been any discussion in the US about forming a foreign legion like the French have? How about enlisting the immigrants instead of chasing them off?

This must be a major untapped human resource. I think many would-be illegal immigrants would prefer to serve in a military outfit earn an honest dollar to send home and at the end of the line get a US citizenship rather then work twenty hour day at mill for tuppence a month (http://www.phespirit.info/montypython/four_yorkshiremen.htm) illegally.

[tanneyman]

using language like that i wouldnt expect to stay around these forums very long...

[Fiber]

Didn't mean to offend anyone with that term.

[CROSSHAIR]

With the current discussion on illegal immigration - Has there been any discussion in the US about forming a foreign legion like the French have? How about enlisting the immigrants instead of chasing them off?

This must be a major untapped human resource. I think many would-be illegal immigrants would prefer to serve in a military outfit earn an honest dollar to send home and at the end of the line get a US citizenship rather then work twenty hour day at mill for tuppence a month (http://www.phespirit.info/montypython/four_yorkshiremen.htm) illegally.

Max Boot, a senior fellow of national security studies at the Council on Foreign Relations, proposes offering "U.S. citizenship to anyone, anywhere on the planet, willing to serve a set term in the U.S. military."

[a_very_ex_STAB]

Max Boot, a senior fellow of national security studies at the Council on Foreign Relations, proposes offering "U.S. citizenship to anyone, anywhere on the planet, willing to serve a set term in the U.S. military."

Was he including covert islamic fundies when he said that?

[Field_Gunner]

two guys from my highschool are in the marines, my cousin is a tank commander in the 4th one guy from my regiment was in a cav unit for a few years befor comming back, he said all he did was went to a recruiting office said he was canadian and wanted to join they did everything else.

[CROSSHAIR]

Was he including covert islamic fundies when he said that?

The U.S. military today is 7 percent foreign-born. Obviously applicants must pass a stringent military screening program. Considering current recruiting shortfalls, perhaps this is a concept that deserves consideration.

[madjack]

Okay, not really. But here's a history of a US Army Infantry Regiment, now deactivated, that was called "America's Foreign Legion."

The 31st was first born in August 1916, when components of the 8th, 12th, and 15th Infantry Regiments were joined. The regiment has the unique distinction of being the only U.S. Infantry Regiment that has never been stationed in the continental United States. It is the Foreign Legion of the U.S. Army.

The regiment went into training for any participation that might become necessary during World War I. The call to duty came in 1918, when coupled with the 27th Regiment, they were dispatched to Siberia. For more than two years these two outfits kept the Trans-Siberian railroad open. It was from this tour of duty that the regiment gained its colorful nickname, “The Polar Bears”, and also earned its first battle streamer.

In 1920 the unit was ordered to the Philippines, where it was garrisoned in Manila, and where the chance was afforded for the development of the 2d nickname, “Thirty First”.

When many of the major cities of Japan were destroyed in the earthquake of 1923, the 31st sent a battalion to assist with the relief work, little realizing that in eighteen years; they would be fighting these same Japanese.

In February 1932, turbulent China broke into open conflict, and the regiment was sent to Shanghai to join the 4th Marines in guarding the International Settlement. For more than five weeks they were under fire, as Chinese and Japanese troops shot over the American troops guarding the Settlement. For this encounter, the regiment won the only battle award given in peacetime, the Yangtze Ribbon.

After five months of service in China, the Polar Bears returned to their station in Manila. When the Japanese landed in the Philippines in December 1941, the 31st fought, but when it became apparent that capture was inevitable, Captain George A. Sansep burned the colors and standards to keep them out of the enemy’s hands.

On 19 January 1946, the 31st Infantry Regiment returned to the rolls of the U.S. Army. And the famous “Shanghai Bowl”, made in 1925 in Shanghai, of 1,500 Chinese silver dollars and inscribed with the names of the Regimental officers was sent to Korea in time for the activation ceremony. The “Shanghai Bowl” had been buried on Corregidor just prior to that Island’s capture by the Japanese. After the war the bowl was recovered none the worse for wear. In Korea the 31st was garrisoned in Seoul, the capitol, and for one year a battalion guarded the eastern part of the 38th Parallel.

Not sure about the years between then and 1980, but when I was in 2ID the 1st Battalion of the Polar Bears were part of the 3rd Brigade, which was stationed in the "western corridor" south of Panmunjom. Manning Guard Posts Collier and Oulette, securing Freedom Bridge and patrolling our sector of the DMZ was the mission.

The regiment has since been deactivated. A pity. This is one of the most unique regimental histories of the US Army.

[nognig]

There would howls of outrage from the left if the US ever formed a "foreign legion". They would say that the US is taking advantage of peoples desire to enter the US.

I can see the headlines.....


United States Devours Another Poor Immigrant

"Poor Sanchez just wanted to get a job in the US so he could support his 12 blind child back home in Mexico. With no other option Sanchez joined the US military but died during another one of the US "Oil Wars". Sanchez saw little of the money that was promised him and now his 12 blind children must fight with dogs for scraps of rotten meat."

Sanchez's blind children cried "The US lied to my poor father. They promised him that he just had to serve 4 years to get his citizenship. The never said he might die! I think he was killed cause he is Mexican."


NN

[mogsniper94]

Well Freedom isn't free. Everybody wants something for nothing. What happen to fighting for what u want. It is an age old profession. The current idea that u just cross the border and get all the right of a citizen is not working out so well.
Let them serve! They can earn their citizenship. It has more honor than the crap jobs they usually get. I have worked on a farm with migrants, and the Military is a way better deal.
Letting them work here conditionally is a lame atempt to import our own 3rd world workforce. A ready made population ,ripe for exploitation.

[Maj C]

There is no need for a "foreign legion". You don't have to be a US citizen to enlist in the armed forces. When I was at MCRD we had several non-citizens come through...German, British, South Americans, Asians.

[Legia]

What Ive heard you must at least have a green card to join which most illegal immigrants dont have. Those who have is mostly westerners and foreign exchange students.

[Atlantic Friend]

I wonder what the results are when a modern, 21st-century society grows increasingly alien to the armed forces that are supposed to protect it...

[Fiber]

There would howls of outrage from the left if the US ever formed a "foreign legion". They would say that the US is taking advantage of peoples desire to enter the US.

I can see the headlines.....
NN

Left, right. No matter what "side" you ask there will always someone who wants to score political points.

[b33f]

What Ive heard you must at least have a green card to join which most illegal immigrants dont have. Those who have is mostly westerners and foreign exchange students.
That's exactly the problem (for me and many other european citizens).. it's not exactly easy to get a GreenCard or else i'd be serving in the USMC already. I know a at least a dozen guys who plan on serving in either the US Army or the US Marines but they don't possess a GreenCard.

Foreign Exchange Students usually have no permanent residence allowance so they can't join!

We had threads like these a lot of times already.

[Maj C]

I wonder what the results are when a modern, 21st-century society grows increasingly alien to the armed forces that are supposed to protect it...

maybe something like this....

http://img.timeinc.net/time/magazine/archive/covers/1962/1101620126_400.jpg

[m.griphen]

b33f you stole the words from my mouth! I would also be in the USMC if it was easy to get a green card.

[Atlantic Friend]

Given Algeria's specific background (it being considered a French département, and thus not a colony but part of the home country), I'm not sure we'll see a US general turn renegade with the help of troops deciding they are loyal to him and not to the United States.

But still, resorting to a foreign legion to fight your country's wars abroad does create a distance between the general population (and its political leaders) and the troops. Will America keep its fervent love for its uniformed men and women if said men and women are here for a green card for example ? what do you think ?

[Maj C]

I was just being facetious of course regarding the OAS but I think there has always been some distance between professional soldiers and the American people and in most Western countries really. I studied this some when I was at the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey. There are many people - in particular Thomas Ricks and Dr. Paul Feaver who believe there is a huge civil-military gap in political/social values. Currently with the war in Iraq there is an outpouring of "we support you, thank you for your service, etc" going on and I don't think the fact that immigrants choose to serve distances them from the people - it only reinforces their appreciation for what a country of opportunity the US is.

on a side note my studies indicated at one time French soldiers were not allowed to vote to prevent their involvement in politics - la grande muette? is this still true?

[AlexNenadic]

There is no need for a "foreign legion". You don't have to be a US citizen to enlist in the armed forces. When I was at MCRD we had several non-citizens come through...German, British, South Americans, Asians.

This is starting to get extremely annoying. People need to learn the difference between a Permanent Resident Alien (green card holder) and a Foreign National. We're talking about foreign nationals here, you ran into immigrants who already had their green cards and had already immigrated to the US by some means. The military will in no way assist in obtaining this status, so if you don't have a green card you're SOL.

[Maj C]

then marry a yank girl...

[Atlantic Friend]

on a side note my studies indicated at one time French soldiers were not allowed to vote to prevent their involvement in politics - la grande muette? is this still true?

No, professionnal soldiers have been allowed to vote after the Liberation in 1945, and conscripts (when we had them) have always been able to vote.

But it's still true that you won't find former high-ranking officers running for office, with General de Gaulle a most unusual exception.

By and large, French politicians have all spent some time in the army - if only during their 12-month militray service, and sometimes will have commanded men in active duty (like Chirac who was a lieutenant in Algeria during the colonial war), but you'll be taxed to find a French equivalent of Generals Clark and Colin Powell.

[Maj C]

Has France stopped conscription? IRRC most Euro nations have started switching over to all volunteer forces. In that case, you may see the gap that we have here too...but I would never say it's big enough to result in a coup. I believe it's cyclic throughout history that civilians alternately embrace or reject its soldiers. Kind of like Kipling's "Tommy"

[25 SQN]

According to one of the FFL Forums when you join the French Foreign Legion and serve for 5 years you get a French passport.

Its one of the main motivators for many Eastern Europeans to join it hence a reasonable % of the FFL troops now come from there.

[Ruledbyjames]

A non national who attains a green card can become a citizen of the U.S after 3 years in the military,correct?

[b33f]

A non national who attains a green card can become a citizen of the U.S after 3 years in the military,correct?
At the very moment it's even a little different, thanks to George W. Bush; a permantent resident serving in the Armed Forces can start the process to attain citizenship after less than 1 year.

But still, resorting to a foreign legion to fight your country's wars abroad does create a distance between the general population (and its political leaders) and the troops. Will America keep its fervent love for its uniformed men and women if said men and women are here for a green card for example ? what do you think ?
1 step would be to allow people who want to serve because they want to serve to do just that. And there are plenty of them.

[annihilation]

Max Boot, a senior fellow of national security studies at the Council on Foreign Relations, proposes offering "U.S. citizenship to anyone, anywhere on the planet, willing to serve a set term in the U.S. military."

Didn't the romans try that too....

Personally if anyone that wants to server this country military should be allowed too (with some restrictions when needed), I also think part of the compenstation/bonus should be a fast track to citizenship.
I know I would join if I lived where my parents came from. Take a chance for a new life and give service to that country will doing it.

[AlexNenadic]

then marry a yank girl...

Yep, thats the plan. ;)

[high psi]

What would happen if hot, young, english speaking Sweedish women started coming into the United States by the tons.

[Limeyfellow]

What would happen if hot, young, english speaking Sweedish women started coming into the United States by the tons.

They would taunt you about your terrible beer?

Its not that easy to get a greencard. The illegal immigrants who do it have already been in the country over seven years and past their military prime. Then you have a bunch of married people who may join but most won't. Then you have really rich people who rarely join. The people most likely to join, with few connections to make them not think about it are those that don't qualify for anything but the greencard lottery which is highly unlikely to ever win.

[Seraphim]

They would taunt you about your terrible beer?

Its not that easy to get a greencard. The illegal immigrants who do it have already been in the country over seven years and past their military prime. Then you have a bunch of married people who may join but most won't. Then you have really rich people who rarely join. The people most likely to join, with few connections to make them not think about it are those that don't qualify for anything but the greencard lottery which is highly unlikely to ever win.

Exactly...you guys are talking like they handout greencards like candy.

[tobigforyou]

I think the United States should not have a Foriegn Legion like the French, it would go against everythign this nation was built on.

[Whoami88]

I think the United States should not have a Foriegn Legion like the French, it would go against everythign this nation was built on.

How is it going against it? Hell, its against the constitution for American soldiers to serve under foreign flags and commanders but that doesn't stop us from serving in UN Operations. The world is a changing place, our founding fathers never meant for the US to become a world superpower or even let the federal government have so much power but it happened anyways. We can't live in a country where politics where centered around the late 1700's. We can help build a new world order or perish.

[Atlantic Friend]

Has France stopped conscription? IRRC most Euro nations have started switching over to all volunteer forces. In that case, you may see the gap that we have here too...but I would never say it's big enough to result in a coup. I believe it's cyclic throughout history that civilians alternately embrace or reject its soldiers. Kind of like Kipling's "Tommy"

France stopped conscription in 1995, at a time where we already had almost all-volunteers regiments. But France always had some provisions for conscripts to do a longer militray service in exchange for special training (like the Reserve Officer Training Platoon, or the Longer Military Service Volunteers).

During Gulf War I, for example, part of the French Navy personnel deployed was made of conscripts, who signed either for special deployments or for longer militray service (and were treated better than the average Jean doing his militray service). When I did my own militray service, at first I wanted to be deployed in ex-Yugoslavia as I spoke a little Serbo-Croatian. I ended up doing something different, but if I had continued in this way I would simply have had to become a Volontaire Service Long.

Switching to an all-volunteer force has been tough on the Army in the beginning, because the regiments were used to rely on a steady flow of conscripts to do building maintenance and other "menial" jobs.

[Ruledbyjames]

RE:Tobigforyou, I call BS. Many nationalities have fought for America. Irish immigrants were signed directly off the boats to fight during the civil war. These people fought for the right to be a U.S citizen which is pretty relevant to the subject.

[tobigforyou]

How is it going against it? Hell, its against the constitution for American soldiers to serve under foreign flags and commanders but that doesn't stop us from serving in UN Operations. The world is a changing place, our founding fathers never meant for the US to become a world superpower or even let the federal government have so much power but it happened anyways. We can't live in a country where politics where centered around the late 1700's. We can help build a new world order or perish.

you got a hell of a point there...

[CPL Trevoga]

With the current discussion on illegal immigration - Has there been any discussion in the US about forming a foreign legion like the French have? How about enlisting the immigrants instead of chasing them off?

This must be a major untapped human resource. I think many would-be illegal immigrants would prefer to serve in a military outfit earn an honest dollar to send home and at the end of the line get a US citizenship rather then work twenty hour day at mill for tuppence a month (http://www.phespirit.info/montypython/four_yorkshiremen.htm) illegally.

Har har har. Great idea, let's outsorce US Army to Russia or China. :)

[scm77]

If you're Canadian and want to join the USMC pm me and I'll pass you the email address of the recruiter that I've been talking to. He'll give you the requirements that you need to meet.

I believe there is already a member on this site who has done this.

[Seraphim]

If you're Canadian and want to join the USMC pm me and I'll pass you the email address of the recruiter that I've been talking to. He'll give you the requirements that you need to meet.

I believe there is already a member on this site who has done this.

Is this the grandparents and parents thing?

[CROSSHAIR]

Many healthy, tough and intelligent men living in poverty would jump at the opportunity to earn the right to become a U.S. citizen. Their families would also appreciate it.

[Atlantic Friend]

Hell, its against the constitution for American soldiers to serve under foreign flags and commanders

Is it ? But in both World Wars American troops found themselves under non-American commanders, and so do they in NATO, I suppose. Does that mean the United States had to pass a special law to accomodate the reality of fighting a war within a coalition ?

[Asheren]

Hmm i would consider it myself. If they make such formation.

[XShipRider]

There is no need for a "foreign legion". You don't have to be a US citizen to enlist in the armed forces. When I was at MCRD we had several non-citizens come through...German, British, South Americans, Asians.

To become an Enlisted Soldier in the U.S. Army, you must be:

A U.S. citizen or permanent resident alien
High School Diploma or equivalent (http://javascript%3Cb%3E%3C/b%3E:wPop%28%27/popups/education_plus.html%27,%27%27,450,300%29)
17-39 years old
Healthy and in good physical condition
In good moral standingPermanent resident alien seems to be the minimum. I guess we could
give illegals amnesty. Oh that's right the Republicans and Democrats
are already doing this. :lol:

[Danger Close]

I recently married LPR (Greencard holder) and I am still waiting to get my Greencard issued, which could take a while. I have already spoken to the US Army, and they have tried every avenue to try and expedite the process...plain and simple...the immigration thing just has to run it's course. One things is for sure, as soon as the greencard comes through, I am into the Green machine! If there were easier ways ie, American Legion citizenship, work visas etc, that would allow one to serve in the US military then the US would have an army in numbers that would dwarf the Chinese and I would be the first to sign up for Uncle Sam!

[MARK.TIGGER]

thought that was the us armed forces anyway met Canadians, Mexicans, English, Irish, Ghanian, Jamacian, Trinidad and Tobagans in the Gulf all in the US army and USMC

[Danger Close]

God knows how they got in there! They must have been Greencard holders. I will need to wait unless anyone else knows how to do it!!!!

[tuercas]

as a foreigner to join the US armed forces, you need to have at least a green card. the us immigration proces is as follows

ENTRY VISA->TEMPORARY RESIDENT CARD (RED CARD)->PERMANENT RESIDENT CARD(GREEN CARD)->US CITIZENSHIP

the difference with the FFL and a potential USFL is that unlike the French, current US process you have to have a permanent card already, that is , the Legion is not your legal entry into the naturalisation process. this discourages foreigners from joining such a force in the US as they would still have to go to the naturalisation process as everyone else.

for most countries , geting a US green card is a very difficultprocess. it takes a very long time, years. and is a very expensive process requiring lots of travel and expense , and there is no guarantee that the aplication for residency would be approved .

there is no shortage of interested people in such a legion, it is not uncomon for men to lineup in the US consulate to inquire about enlistment for foreigners around here. it would be a good source of recruits for the US but immigration policy would have to change dramatically for this to happen.

[MARK.TIGGER]

I witnessed 1 soldier getting his US citizenship on a Camp in Kuwait

[Whoami88]

I witnessed 1 soldier getting his US citizenship on a Camp in Kuwait

Thats cool!! God forbid the media reporting that though... :roll:

[derkrieger]

Guys a few years ago, a friend of mine was ( a German) in Dallas, visiting language school. He told me that their class was visited by recruiters. Though he cannot tell whether these guys were from USMC or Army, they asked if anyone was willing to join US Armed Forces.Many people are dreaming of a chance like this. Such a moron this guy was, he didnot do a thing.
You dont have to believe it, I know it happened.

[psychoticweazel]

Just wondering if anyone has any experience in enlisting in the US army as a non US citizen.
I am Dutch and have been in service in the Netherlands....till I was kicked out by my captain for a number of stupid reasons. One of them being that he just didn't like me!

Thanks in advance.

[Ezekiel25:17]

Don't need to be a US Citizen. If you have a green card (difficult to get) you can join.

[psychoticweazel]

This I knew.

But thnks anyway.

[Wiseman]

If you want to be an officer you have to be a US citizen and must not possess any active foreign passport.

[Danger Close]

Wiseman,

Quick question. I have spoken to the Recruiter near to me about joining the military, and especially in regards to becoming an officer. Firstly, your absolutely right about having to be a US citizen, there's no ifs, buts or maybes there, but they never made any mention of having to give up your dual citizenship or the likes when I asked that question! Would it not be on a case by case basis and dependant upon what country you a from originally?

[Bernardo]

You have to give up your dual citizenship IF your position requires any kind of Security Clearance. This is definitely the case as an officer.

As far as enlisting goes, you need the Green Card. You'll hear many many recruiters telling you "you can join now, sign here!", bust they don't know what they are talkinga bout until you sign the contract, they put it through and recieve it back because of the missing Green Card.

Your only chance is to get married here in the US and wait til you get a Green Card. Otherwise, you'd have to get a job over here, wait 10-15 years to get a Green Card, and finally be able to enlist.

[Danger Close]

Yeah I have already had the recruiter try that one! I am pretty well done now just awaiting the issuance of my 'A' number which will be any day now and I am a goer! Any Idea as to what the max age waiver is for the Marines? I am 31 now!

[Ruledbyjames]

If you are looking to go enlisted its a greencard but for officership and special forces citizenship is a must.

If youre looking for ways to get a greencard you can either- A). Apply for a greencard in the greencard lottery, B). Get sponsered by family or a company or C) invest alot of money in a business.

50,000 greencards are given out annually but for 2007 there will be an estimated 12,000,000 people applying.

[ramy]

Yeah I have already had the recruiter try that one! I am pretty well done now just awaiting the issuance of my 'A' number which will be any day now and I am a goer! Any Idea as to what the max age waiver is for the Marines? I am 31 now!

I think I remember hearing it was 32, better double check that number though.

[Danger Close]

Thanks Ramy!

[dutchinusa]

Hey guys, (been reading forums for a while first post though)

So I'm in the process of getting my green card, should be another 3-4 months barring any weird things happening with immigration services. On the day that my passport gets stamped I'm planning to enlist. Unfortunately most of the recruiters i've contacted (primarily online) are less than helpful for answering specific questions. I guess most don't wanna take the time since I can't quite join yet. So hopefully some of you guys can help me out.

Little background on me:
I'm a Dutch citizen married to an American. I was born in Holland but grew up all over the world because of my dads job. I lived in Africa/Middle East/Asia for most of my live (mostly east and south africa). I graduate from the American School in India, then did my undergraduate degree in Hawaii. After that I worked for the British government in Pakistan for one year, doing mostly economic research(this included travel to A-stan). After that I went back to HI to do my masters, currently living in San Diego CA.

I'm in pretty good shape although not the best i've been in because i've been plagued by little injuries over the last year. No serious damage just a lot of little accidents causing sprains, tears, and a few stitches. Also a little overweight right now (about 220lbs at 6ft), because that just wait i've put on since my last injury which prevented me from doing my usual workouts. Always been very athletic. 8+yrs muay thai, 5yrs juijitsu, 5yrs MMA experience. Extremely confident in the water as I grew up surfing, good long distance swimmer and scuba certified. I can do about 25 pushups, 35situps, and 5pull ups right now, which if far below my usual standard. I'm not sure how fast I run as i've never timed myself but I jog about 3miles/day. I hike once a week for about 10miles in mountains. I've got incredible stamina and a lot of willpower to continue when all you really wanna do is die. Currently i'm starting HIIT to improve my cardio. And I expect myself to improve all my physical fitness a lot as i've set aside 4hrs/day.

I am a pretty decent shot, as I grew up hunting. And ofcourse some of the countries i've lived in allowed me to play around with all sorts of weapons from a young age. So I'm pretty decent with assault rifles, and handguns. I'm not easily scared (in fact I love to do adventerous/dangrous stuff), and I've seen a little action from having lived in the wrong places at the wrong times. In fact the roof was blown of my house in the 98 embassy bombings because I lived across the street from the US embassy in Tanzania.

Anyway, I want several things out of my military career. I do want to be in a combat unit but I obviously don't want my education and more importantly my understanding of Middle Easter/Central Asian culture to go to waste. I think that I can be of great use on the frontlines...Ideally I'd like to join some special forces unit but I understand that I have to wait at least a year until I get my passport (which immigrants get after 1 yr of active duty).

So finally here's my questions:
1) Based on my background what branch might I best be suited for? (i'm kinda leaning towards USMC right now because i'm in san diego already)

2) Any suggested career paths within the military i should look at?

3) Any suggestions on how to get into top physical shape e.g. books, websites, drills anything

4) Is there anyway that I can get a contract stating that it is my intention to join SF once I become a citizen? (I don't mind signing on for extra years, because if i'm in a specialized unit i'd like to make it my permanent career.)

5) A lot of my graduate education was focused on Afghanistan so is there any way for me to make my way out there? (I don't really care about where I have to go but I think I would personally enjoy working in the Astan environment best because of my background knowledge)

I'll add more questions as they arise...but thanx for any info!!

[Macs.]

I think you forgot to ask your questions. :)


A question: If you are married to a american, aren't you already allowed to work in the US ?

[eighty2]

Hey guys, (been reading forums for a while first post though)

So I'm in the process of getting my green card, should be another 3-4 months barring any weird things happening with immigration services. On the day that my passport gets stamped I'm planning to enlist. Unfortunately most of the recruiters i've contacted (primarily online) are less than helpful for answering specific questions. I guess most don't wanna take the time since I can't quite join yet. So hopefully some of you guys can help me out.

Little background on me:
I'm a Dutch citizen married to an American. I was born in Holland but grew up all over the world because of my dads job. I lived in Africa for most of my live (mostly east and south africa). I graduate from the American School in India, then did my undergraduate degree in Hawaii. After that I worked for the British government in Pakistan for one year, doing mostly economic research(this included travel to A-stan). After that I went back to HI to do my masters, currently living in San Diego CA.

I'm in pretty good shape although not the best i've been in because i've been plagued by little injuries over the last year. No serious damage just a lot of little accidents causing sprains, tears, and a few stitches. Also a little overweight right now (about 15lbs), because that just wait i've put on since my last injury which prevented me from doing my usual workouts. Always been very athletic. 8+yrs muay thai, 5yrs juijitsu, 5yrs MMA experience. Extremely confident in the water as I grew up surfing, good long distance swimmer and scuba certified.

You shouldn't have any problem with any of the service branches. Be sure to tell them about your experiences in Africa and abroad.

[dutchinusa]

I think you forgot to ask your questions. :)


A question: If you are married to a american, aren't you already allowed to work in the US ?

Yes i'm allowed to work in the US and I have a temporary work visa right now while waiting for my Legal Permanent Resident (green card) status. And you can't join the military before having your green card, a regular work permit doesn't do.

[dave81]

Here's a better place to ask your questions: http://forums.military.com/groupee/forums/a/cfrm/f/6801982206

[Yimmy]

If you don't mind my asking, why not join the Dutch military?

The Dutch military is good, it isn't like some other European nations, like the Austrians.

[USMA_SCUBA]

how old are you?

[Resurrection]

The Dutch military is good, it isn't like some other European nations, like the Austrians.

Could you elaborate? What's wrong with the Austrian military?

[dutchinusa]

If you don't mind my asking, why not join the Dutch military?

The Dutch military is good, it isn't like some other European nations, like the Austrians.

2 reasons:

1) I haven't lived in Holland since I was 4yrs old. My Dutch isn't so great. Considering my education/friends/social and political background I'm probably more American than Dutch. Most people here don't even know i'm Dutch, and I don't feel Dutch aside from having the passport (and ofcourse during the World Cup). In addition my wife is from the US and doesn't speak dutch and isn't interested in moving there.

2) I don't wanna be worried about getting arrested and tried for firing my weapon every time I see combat.

[dutchinusa]

how old are you?

i'm 23, will be 24 by the time I enlist.

[camerashy]

First off, recruiters aren't your friend so don't tell them anything besides what you want to do in the Army(?) or whatever branch. They'll try and convince you to take a job offering a $25k bonus or something. If money is all you want then so be it, but I suggest researching a job you will find interesting in three or four years down the road. Quite often the jobs that have huge sign-up bonuses aren't as spiritually rewarding as others....IE fuel specialist. I recommend either infantry with Ranger and/or SF or Intelligence jobs.

[dutchinusa]

First off, recruiters aren't your friend so don't tell them anything besides what you want to do in the Army(?) or whatever branch. They'll try and convince you to take a job offering a $25k bonus or something. If money is all you want then so be it, but I suggest researching a job you will find interesting in three or four years down the road. Quite often the jobs that have huge sign-up bonuses aren't as spiritually rewarding as others....IE fuel specialist. I recommend either infantry with Ranger and/or SF or Intelligence jobs.

Tx for the advise. Money isn't really the issue if I wanted that, with my education, I'd find a job in another industry. So any bonuses aren't really going to motivate me to take a job which I clearly won't enjoy. But once I sign a contract can you change what you want to do down the road while you are already in service. I understand that usually additional training means that you have to commit more time the the military. But like can I say that, since I have to wait 1.5yrs for citizenship, i'll join some infantry unit and then upon receiving citizenship go for Ranger etc. training?

Also once I do get my citizenship am I gonna encounter any security clearance issues when trying out for things like Rangers/Force Recon/SF?

[LibertyUnites]

quick question: what languages do you speak? english only or others as well?

[Thunder]

2 reasons:

1) I haven't lived in Holland since I was 4yrs old. My Dutch isn't so great. Considering my education/friends/social and political background I'm probably more American than Dutch. Most people here don't even know i'm Dutch, and I don't feel Dutch aside from having the passport (and ofcourse during the World Cup). In addition my wife is from the US and doesn't speak dutch and isn't interested in moving there.

2) I don't wanna be worried about getting arrested and tried for firing my weapon every time I see combat.1) Traitor, TRAITOR!

2) I don't think you'll have to worry about that in Afghanistan.

[RobertStacked]

Tx for the advise.

Also once I do get my citizenship am I gonna encounter any security clearance issues when trying out for things like Rangers/Force Recon/SF?


YES. Dont let anyone here tell you otherwise. Maybe Rangers, and I stress MAYBE! I knew some former IDF guys in the 82d (go Bragg/ or Marines (but get the former in your contract!- you'll be lost in the mix with the Marines). Its a good place to start. You should be able to be swooped up by some cool guys shortly thereafter. With your history.
Sadly your gonna have to sign up like a street Ahole w/ a history. Point is your not gonna get any MOS with a security clearance right off the bat. Your gonna have to work your way up.

[Eudes]

I just finished Infantry School and am now in the middle of Airborne School, any questions feel free to ask. If you join any combat arms you are likely to see your share of the Middle East however if you wish to apply your education go into intel or counter-intel. Just today we had Rangers walking around our barracks looking for intel guys to recruit. Seeing as how you are not really in that good of shape, aren't a citizen, and dont really have a clear focus why not just start small before looking for the highspeed contracts. Think of your wife as well. The recruiters will always be there when you are ready for the highspeed stuff.

[LthrnckZero]

YES. Dont let anyone here tell you otherwise. Maybe Rangers, and I stress MAYBE! I knew some former IDF guys in the 82d (go Bragg/ or Marines (but get the former in your contract!- you'll be lost in the mix with the Marines). Its a good place to start. You should be able to be swooped up by some cool guys shortly thereafter. With your history.
Sadly your gonna have to sign up like a street Ahole w/ a history. Point is your not gonna get any MOS with a security clearance right off the bat. Your gonna have to work your way up.

Unfortunately, I think he hit the nail on the head with that one. I have been interviewed for a couple of my friends getting their top secret clearances, and one of the things they ask you about is if that person has any contacts outside of the U.S. I know of a guy who was turned down for an intel MOS because his parents were not U.S. citizens(or something to that effect). Long story short, you're probably not going to get an intel job, which is unfortunate because with your background and your willingness to go to a combat unit, I think you'd be an asset as a ground intel officer. I'd say that your best shot to make a difference while utilizing your skills is to be an infantry officer. If you are not hellbent on being in a combat unit, some type of civil affairs could also be appropriate.

[dutchinusa]

quick question: what languages do you speak? english only or others as well?

English- Fluent in speaking/understanding/reading/writing

Dutch- Fluent in speaking/understanding/reading, but writing is the main problem since I havent had any Dutch classes since 7th grade so my grammar/spelling/vocab is terrible.

Afrikaans- Proficient in speaking/understanding/reading, never done any writing but since its essentially Dutch lacking proper grammar I might do ok.

Spanish/Portuguese- Basic speaking/understanding/reading, writing is terrible

Bahasa Indonesia - Proficient understanding, Basic speaking/reading, no writing

Hindi/Urdu- real basic just enough to shop in stores.

Swahili- very broken, I used to be fluent but just havent used it in years (it might come back easily though)

My mom is from Indonesia and she's a linguist so I kinda got the language learning gene from her.

[GLax]

Infantry is fun, but you'll get tore up as a private. just make sure you check your ego at the door. i only say that because your educated, most Infantryman arent and that'll prolly pi$$ them off, you'll have an "attitude problem" even before you get to your unit. only real advise i can give you is, even though hes a jerk on a power trip, that 21 year old Corporal who calls you a stupid 'kid' will save your life someday. so listen up and dont highlight yourself.

FYI: i am that 21 year old Corporal:)

[dutchinusa]

1) Traitor, TRAITOR!
Mod edit, if all you clog boys could keep it to English, like it says in the site rules, that would be sweet.

[LibertyUnites]

damn! got me beat!

maybe consider PsyOps or Civil Affairs?

[RobertStacked]

Infantry is fun, but you'll get tore up as a private. just make sure you check your ego at the door. i only say that because your educated, most Infantryman arent and that'll prolly pi$$ them off, you'll have an "attitude problem" even before you get to your unit. only real advise i can give you is, even though hes a jerk on a power trip, that 21 year old Corporal who calls you a stupid 'kid' will save your life someday. so listen up and dont highlight yourself.

FYI: i am that 21 year old Corporal:)


A Marine- case in point. Not to knock you Corporal! Your only hope is the 82d!

[dutchinusa]

Infantry is fun, but you'll get tore up as a private. just make sure you check your ego at the door. i only say that because your educated, most Infantryman arent and that'll prolly pi$$ them off, you'll have an "attitude problem" even before you get to your unit. only real advise i can give you is, even though hes a jerk on a power trip, that 21 year old Corporal who calls you a stupid 'kid' will save your life someday. so listen up and dont highlight yourself.

FYI: i am that 21 year old Corporal:)

don't worry, i don't have an ego as far as education is concerned. i definitely don't come off as a college educated person, in fact most people who meet me assume that i'm dumb and are very surprised to find out i even went to college(unless they know me from work). i think its the fact that i worked construction throughout college that kinda gives of that image, in fact i'm usually asked if i'm a marine/soldier...so i think i'll fit in easily enough.

[RobertStacked]

don't worry, i don't have an ego as far as education is concerned. i definitely don't come off as a college educated person, in fact most people who meet me assume that i'm dumb and are very surprised to find out i even went to college(unless they know me from work). i think its the fact that i worked construction throughout college that kinda gives of that image, in fact i'm usually asked if i'm a marine/soldier...so i think i'll fit in easily enough.

as far as ego in general...not really a problem...i check my ego at the door everyday when i train MMA

Go 11B, Infantry with airborne in your contract. Its a gamble but you could go Ranger, SF, after a few deployments. I knew a couple Germans, Africans, Englishmen in ITB. Dont do the cheat sheet (18X contract)- DO YOUR TIME AND KNOW YOUR STUFF!p-)

[Javaa]

Mod edit, if all you clog boys could keep it to English, like it says in the site rules, that would be sweet.
I think he is just kiddin' ;)

Be absolutely 100% sure that this is really what you want. After all, being a US soldier in 2006 could very well be a pretty harsh and difficult job (challenging nevertheless) and it will probably have a big impact on you, and of course on your family/wife.

Anyways, 'Veel succes'

Groeten uit Groningen ;)

[Thunder]

Mod edit, if all you clog boys could keep it to English, like it says in the site rules, that would be sweet.What a shame. :|

Mod edit, if all you clog boys could keep it to English, like it says in the site rules, that would be sweet..

[GLax]

thats good, if i were you, i wouldnt even advertise the fact you're educated. might get stuck with some gay job in headquarters platoon.

[dutchinusa]

Go 11B, Infantry with airborne in your contract. Its a gamble but you could go Ranger, SF, after a few deployments.

I know i have to sign up for 11B first because airborne(and up) is reserved for US Citizens. So I have to serve for one year, then go through the naturalization process (which take 6months i think for military personnel) and then I can go to airborne.

Is there anywhere I can look up the qualifications/requirements to get security clearances. Also what clearances are needed for what Ranger/SF, so that I can kinda figure out where I might hit a ceiling?

[dutchinusa]

thats good, if i were you, i wouldnt even advertise the fact you're educated. might get stuck with some gay job in headquarters platoon.

Thats the thing though, I kinda want to find that balance between a "field" job and still utilizing my education/background. I have no interest in sitting in an office somewhere typing away, then I'd rather get a good paying job outside of the military. But I also don't want to be just some "cowboy" waving his rifle around. Basically I want to make a difference while still enjoying an exiting job.

[Wiseman]

As far as security clearances for the US Army go, you will need ot get rid of your Dutch citizenship if you want to get Secret clearance. You need a Top Secret clearance in Army SF I believe.

[pathfinder82]

First off, recruiters aren't your friend so don't tell them anything besides what you want to do in the Army(?) or whatever branch.

Thats BS. There are tons of recuriters who take what they do seriously and genuinely care about their guys.

Looks like your good to go.

[RobertStacked]

I know i have to sign up for 11B first because airborne(and up) is reserved for US Citizens. So I have to serve for one year, then go through the naturalization process (which take 6months i think for military personnel) and then I can go to airborne.

Is there anywhere I can look up the qualifications/requirements to get security clearances. Also what clearances are needed for what Ranger/SF, so that I can kinda figure out where I might hit a ceiling?


Sorry brother. You gotta go 11Bang Bang. I knew plenty of guys like you (educated Germans in this case) who went through ITB with me. Really good guys. At best, you have a chance for airborne right off the bat, or in a few of their cases, impress/badger the hell out of someone up there. Security clearances are black and white for the Army, unless you have time in, they will not accomodate you.

Good Luck!

[dutchinusa]

As far as security clearances for the US Army go, you will need ot get rid of your Dutch citizenship if you want to get Secret clearance. You need a Top Secret clearance in Army SF I believe.

That isn't really an issue for me as I'll lose my Dutch citizenship anyway for taking on another nationality. I don't even think that Dutch citizens are allowed to serve in foreign armies and that in doing so I'm essentially renouncing my citizenship. (Dutchies feel free to correct me on this)

Sorry brother. You gotta go 11Bang Bang. I knew plenty of guys like you (educated Germans in this case) who went through ITB with me. Really good guys. At best, you have a chance for airborne right off the bat, or in a few of their cases, impress/badger the hell out of someone up there. Security clearances are black and white for the Army, unless you have time in, they will not accomodate you.

Good Luck!

I don't mind starting from the bottom, as long as I'm learning stuff along the way I'm happy. As long as I learn cool stuff and get to apply it I'm happy, so I'll climb my way up. And I don't mind having to put in my time as 11B or being deployed before going to Airborne and Ranger (or whatever branch I end up in) schools, as long as I do get that garauntee that I'll get there as soon as I get my US passport.

But am I understanding you right that you can essentially work your way up security clearances by building a history and credibility within the armed forces? So it isn't once a foreigner always a foreigner?

[Thunder]

That isn't really an issue for me as I'll lose my Dutch citizenship anyway for taking on another nationality. I don't even think that Dutch citizens are allowed to serve in foreign armies and that in doing so I'm essentially renouncing my citizenship. (Dutchies feel free to correct me on this)If I remember correctly, that's only when the country who's army you're joining is an enemy (making it treason against the state, or "landverraad").

[RobertStacked]

From what I've seen. Time in, rectifies certain transgressions and in your case, a racial handicap (laughs- you are Dutch). Funny thing I saw, is that you go through SFAS- THEN start your "secret" (mind you not "top secret") paperwork. I've known guys who have had to appeal their clearances while going through the later phases of the course only to have miraculously attained a "secret" (mind you not "top secret") before Robin Sage.
Point is. You are gonna have to work your way up from the bottom. You'll learn something from there- violence of action, TRUE leadership, mag changes while keeping your head down, basics. save your life/team, etc. These things are hard fought.
I say, you have a one up on almost every SF enlistee (18x) out there.

EARN IT!

[BadKarma26]

From what I've seen. Time in, rectifies certain transgressions and in your case, a racial handicap (laughs- you are Dutch). Funny thing I saw, is that you go through SFAS- THEN start your "secret" (mind you not "top secret") paperwork. I've known guys who have had to appeal their clearances while going through the later phases of the course only to have miraculously attained a "secret" (mind you not "top secret") before Robin Sage.
Point is. You are gonna have to work your way up from the bottom. You'll learn something from there- violence of action, TRUE leadership, mag changes while keeping your head down, basics. save your life/team, etc. These things are hard fought.
I say, you have a one up on almost every SF enlistee (18x) out there.

EARN IT!

unlike you right stacked?

[RobertStacked]

unlike you right stacked?


Thanks. You hit the nail right on the head.


rofl

[Suigenesis]

You could always enlist for 3 years, and after that first year re-enlist for where ever you want to go. If you re-enlist for 3 years with 2 years left on original contract, it'll only actually add 1 year to your time in service. If you get what I'm saying.

[dutchinusa]

You could always enlist for 3 years, and after that first year re-enlist for where ever you want to go. If you re-enlist for 3 years with 2 years left on original contract, it'll only actually add 1 year to your time in service. If you get what I'm saying.

Would this work if I enlist for 4yrs and then with 2yrs left re-enlist for 3yrs? Because I'm afraid 2yrs might pass before I'm given citizenship? I can only apply for citizenship after 1yr. and I'm not sure how long the procedure takes....but from my current experience with attaining a green card I don't have too much faith in Immigration Services.

[USMA_SCUBA]

Just to throw out other options. You have an undergrad degree plus an advanced degree. You could enlist with a college option into OCS (officer candidate school). PM me and we can talk about it if you need to. later

[dangerdan]

Well, you have a college degree yes? Then try the Marines OCS. Talk to your local Marine Corps recruiters. I leave in 3 weeks to go to San Diego for Marine Corps boot camp. OCS is in Quantico, VA.
Ive been in the DEP for almost a year now, and it is what they say, its 10% physical, and 90% mental.
After you enlist, more than likely they will have you in the DEP for a few weeks considering your already a High School Graduate. I'm not sure how long they will hold you if you go to OCS, but my guess is that its not very long.

Marines don't offer enlistment bonuses (well they do on SOME jobs, but its no 26k). Becoming a Marine comes from the heart, not dead presidents.

[Bernardo]

I leave in 3 weeks to go to San Diego for Marine Corps boot camp. OCS is in Quantico, VA.

Cool ****, I've got a friend who's going to Quantico in 3 weeks.

[Nizark]

advice: get use to sand

[dutchinusa]

Just to throw out other options. You have an undergrad degree plus an advanced degree. You could enlist with a college option into OCS (officer candidate school). PM me and we can talk about it if you need to. later

I'm indeed thinking of OCS but once again I'll have to become a US citizen first, so enlist then active duty 1yr, then apply for citizenship, then OCS... but but becoming an officer is less important to me than getting into an elite squad like Airborne/Ranger/SF

[dangerdan]

Everyone wants to be a Delta eh?

[A Soldier]

First off, look at the Army right now good and well. I am biased b/c I'm in the Army, but compared to the USMC your bonus with be much greater from the Army. With your background I think you would be best suited for Military Intel which if you know a few languages which it sounds like you might, will make you and your wife bank $$$$$$. Any other questions PM me, one of my friends from high school is a recruiter.

[Hispeed1]

With your background-why not the "Company?" You should be a U.S. citizen in a bit, right?

[dutchinusa]

With your background-why not the "Company?" You should be a U.S. citizen in a bit, right?

No unless I join the military it will take me 5 years to get naturalized. Right now I'm just working on my green card, but Bush signed a law that anyone with a green card who joins will get citizenship after 1 year of active duty. But I just want citizenship so that I can get further in the military.

As for the "Company", I want to leave that for later in life...for now I want a little bit more of an active career. I've thought a lot about it because when I worked in Pakistan in '03 I met a lot of Joe Smith's and Bob's with beards and turbans, and some of those guys have been convincing me lately to consider going into that direction. But I personally think I'm a little better suited for the military coz I hate bureaucracy...

[Caribou Kid]

dutchinusa,
You seem like a pretty intelligent guy; use what you've got, mate. I too grew up as an expat brat, so when I joined the Aussie Mil, I sounded like an American becuse I attended International schools almost my entire academic life. As has been pointed out earlier in this thread, having not only a high school Diploma but a Bachelors as well makes you a very unusual private in an Infantry Battalion, ok, as grunts are not exactly rocket scientists :) (said the ex-infanteer...)

I appreciate the hoops you've gotta jump through to get to American OCS, as you have pointed out, but dude, the USA is at WAR! Unless you opt for some obscure MOS like Cinema Projectionist, 1st class, or something equally 733t, there's a fairly good chance you'd end up using your unique skill set once you bring it to the attention of you chain of command. With the near-vacuum of suitable linguists/cultural liason officers, with a local appreciation of the regions you are familiar with, I reckon you'd be a shoe in for Afghanistan or Pakistan. Just your understanding alone of Muslim culture, customs & traditions puts you in a pretty unique position, I am quite confident. Obviously, don't brag about it (I doubt you would) but don't let your Superiors miss out on the opportunity to put your valuable assets to good use, either. The most they can do is say NO, right?

BTW, what about thinking outside the square for a second, dude. What about this different perspective... Try going out for MEDIC. They are EVERYWHERE the Mil deploys(like cooks...), you could end up as a wardsman in a major Hospital Like Walter Reed (stateside!) or Landsuhl ,(Europe/Amsterdam!) or you could elect to be a corpsman for a Marine MEU(SOC) in a frontline Infantry Battalion. The SF also like to have MEDICS in their A-teams, no? If that was your principal MOS before applying for "elevated status," You'd probably be a surefire contender for the SF Medic school if you make it through... And dude, Medic Linguists are VERY rare, yes? There are other paths to SF besides Infantry units, mate. They are just the overwhelming majority, but they don't have the monopoly on SF candidates. Engineers are another under-appreciated arms corps, Dutchinusa. Google is your friend! :)

Best of luck in your enlistment
PS. Wives don't really groove on multiple extended deployments enjoyed by the combat arms corps, yeah? Remeber the old "..if they wanted you to have one, they'd have issued you one..." line? It exists for a reason... and it's still around for a reason..... something to factor into the equation :) Many, many young divorced guys paying child support/alimony in grunt battalions... It's rough on relationships :(

[nognig]

Right now I'm just working on my green card, but Bush signed a law that anyone with a green card who joins will get citizenship after 1 year of active duty.

From what I've read, if you are on active duty during an "authorized conflict" (which we are currently in since 9/11), you don't have to wait a year to apply for citizenship, you can apply immediately.

USCIS.gov (http://www.uscis.gov/graphics/services/natz/MilitaryBrochurev7.pdf)

However, it takes up to a year to process the application and get sworn in.

Citizenship thru Military Service (http://www.shusterman.com/gulfwar.html)

Good luck!

NN

[25 SQN]

Can you apply to become an officer?

Its worth investigation as you will be much better off when you eventually leave, having a good education and then becoming a grunt is a waste. No disrespect to infantry types as they do a good job but its horses for courses and you would probably get bored and need more of a challenge. Asan officer you could still be in a combat arm but have a better career, why not consider the Engineers. I sometimes regreted not joining as an officer and if I had my time again would have applied for Sandhurst.

I cant speak for the US Army/ Marines but served 6 years in the British Army and my Engineering training and experience got me into University and then into an excellent career in Civil Engineering.

The forces are great but not for ever!

[A Soldier]

As a officer tho, your weapon pretty much is a radio. If you are firing your weapon something is going down hardcore. So if you feel like you want to be shooting go enlisted.

[dutchinusa]

Can you apply to become an officer?

no i have to enlist, officer school is for citizens only...so i might be able to write it into my contract.

[Suigenesis]

Would this work if I enlist for 4yrs and then with 2yrs left re-enlist for 3yrs? Because I'm afraid 2yrs might pass before I'm given citizenship? I can only apply for citizenship after 1yr. and I'm not sure how long the procedure takes....but from my current experience with attaining a green card I don't have too much faith in Immigration Services.

Yep. You could enlist for 3 years, then after 2 years re-enlist for however many years you want. The Army wants guys and will really help you out when it comes to re-enlisting.

I'd advise elisting for the shortest ammount of time possible at first, which is 3 years. You're not even in the military yet and really don't know how you're going to like it. I'm a prime example. My whole life all I wanted to do was be in the Army and be Airborne Infantry, I planned to spend 20 years in. Now after 2 1/2 I can't wait to get the **** out, but I'm only half way done. There's just too much BS that flies around to really like this job. Too many garrison NCOs and Os walking around trying to run a wartime combat unit.

[Wiseman]

I reiterate again to get rid of your Dutch citizenship officially. You will have problems obtaining clearance.

[dutchinusa]

For sure, I won't commit more than 3-4yrs right now not knowing how I'll like it in the military. Although I think I might be ok, since I'm pretty much the opposite of you. Didn't want to have anything to do with the military, so I went to school, got the fancy job and hating life right now because it just isn't what I want to do. And over the last year or so the military has just been starting to look more and more interesting. But yeah, I understand that it is still essentially a government organization with strict chain of command and therefore will have a tendency to be political and bureaucratic...but that doesn't worry me so much as long as I'm still learning the things I want to learn and getting to apply that stuff

[dutchinusa]

I reiterate again to get rid of your Dutch citizenship officially. You will have problems obtaining clearance.

I think I have to officially in writing renounce my Dutch citizenship anyways during the naturalization process. (plus if I go to A-stan or Iraq with an American flag on my uniform that is grounds for me to lose my citizenship in Holland) And like I said before, while I am proud of my Dutch heritage, I am more American than anything and want to make this my home country...so no issues there.

[Eudes]

Nizark, Sandhill is getting covered with small rocks so when you do up-down-go's you get covered with a fine dust, no more sand in the snatch for the new guys. Unless you were hinting at the 'sandbox.'

[croberts038]

i know there have been countless topics on this, i just can't find them. is there any us military personell online that could help me out? i'm out of the canadian army and i'm interested in joining up in the states.

thanks

[BadKarma26]

http://goarmy.com/ChatIndex.do?redirect=true

You can go here and talk to recruiters on the internet. They can answer any question you have accurately. Good choice bud ; ]

[MPNFL]

u need to have a green card (permanent residency) b4 u can enlist

[Seiran]

No you don't. You just need proof that you are here legally. Whether that be a green card, drivers license, ID card from whatever state you're in. I'm in the same boat and my recruiter told me anything that proves legal residence will do.

[MPNFL]

wtf ... i waited 4 years for a god damn green card b4 i could enlist

[DE6]

No you don't. You just need proof that you are here legally. Whether that be a green card, drivers license, ID card from whatever state you're in. I'm in the same boat and my recruiter told me anything that proves legal residence will do.

But don't you need a work permit (green card) to be declared permanent resident?

Anyway, do a search, this topic has been beaten to death every six months, the answers are there.

[MichaelF]

No you don't. You just need proof that you are here legally. Whether that be a green card, drivers license, ID card from whatever state you're in. I'm in the same boat and my recruiter told me anything that proves legal residence will do.


Legal Alien Residency = Green Card.

[Kingswat]

No you don't. You just need proof that you are here legally. Whether that be a green card, drivers license, ID card from whatever state you're in. I'm in the same boat and my recruiter told me anything that proves legal residence will do.

I talked to them 2 years ago and they said i needed to be a US citizen.

[Ratamacue]

I talked to them 2 years ago and they said i needed to be a US citizen.You only need to be a US citizen if you wish to be an officer or in a job that requires a security clearance (e.g. Special Forces).

[rooks]

Taken from: http://usmilitary.about.com/od/joiningthemilitary/f/noncitizen.htm

----------------------------------------
Q.Can a non-U.S. Citizen join the United States Military?

A. Yes. A non-citizen can enlist in the military. However, federal law prohibits non-citizens from becoming commission or warrant officers.

In order for a non-citizen to enlist in the military, he/she must first be a legal immigrant (with a green card), permamently residing in the United States. It's important to note that the military cannot and will not assist in the immigration process. One must immigrate first, using normal immigration quotas and procedures, and -- once they've established an address in the United States -- they can find a recruiter's office and apply for enlistment.

----------------------------------------

[Minions Ownage]

Way to go on your intestinal fortitude to want to become one of us. If you really liked what your job was in prior service, then try and get that same field again in ours. What you lookin' for? USMC, Army?

[AlexNenadic]

i know there have been countless topics on this, i just can't find them. is there any us military personell online that could help me out? i'm out of the canadian army and i'm interested in joining up in the states.

thanks

I'm afraid you're out of luck, I've been trying to do the same thing for the past 3 years with no success (I'm finishing up my college degree here in the US). Unless I get a civilian job and an H1 visa after college they'll boot me right out after graduation.

Alex

[Yeoman]

crobets; how fresh out of the canadian military are you?
you need to wait a minimum three years and get someone (can't not remember who, but I'm guessing it would be the minister of national defence) to say that you are no longer of service to DND, before you can enlist in another nations country.
I attempted to join the brits a few years back and got shot down for that reason mainly.
Greg

[AlexNenadic]

crobets; how fresh out of the canadian military are you?
you need to wait a minimum three years and get someone (can't not remember who, but I'm guessing it would be the minister of national defence) to say that you are no longer of service to DND, before you can enlist in another nations country.
I attempted to join the brits a few years back and got shot down for that reason mainly.
Greg

I'm pretty sure the US has no such requirement, having spoken with a former Canadian soldier who's now in the USMC. It took him significantly less than 3 years to get in.

[foxtrot023]

Green card- You can enlist as a private

Citizenship- you can enlist as an officer

[Yeoman]

well you're technically still on a inactive reserve after two years after you get out of the military here in canada.
don't believe me? look it up.
Greg

[WARPIG]

I guess I have to clear this up again. You cannot join the US Military unless you are a permanent resident. That means a green card that shows permanent status. Even then you are restricted to jobs that don't require security clearance and have a limited timeline (8yrs) to be enlisted. Your ability to become a citizen gets a bit easier when you are in the Army but the requirements are basically the same.

Watch the barracks lawers here.

Give me a PM if you want more specific info.

I am getting my info directly out of the ARMY ECM... or Enlistment Criteria Manual.

[MichaelF]

http://www.goarmy.com/about/enlisted_soldier.jsp

to become an Enlisted Soldier in the U.S. Army, you must be:

A U.S. citizen or permanent resident alien
High School Diploma or equivalent
17-41 years old
Healthy and in good physical condition
In good moral standing
Some Army jobs may have additional qualifications

Methods to gain Permanent Residency ("Green Card"):

http://www.uscis.gov/graphics/services/residency/index.htm

Locate a Recruiter (International):

http://www.goarmy.com/contact/find_a_recruiter.jsp

Army MOSs (Jobs):
http://www.goarmy.com/JobCatList.do?redirect=true&fw=careerindex&bl=Contact%20the%20Army
Note: Some descriptions will tell you if you need Citizenship (for Security Clearance) to be eligible for that MOS.


http://www.uscis.gov/graphics/services/residency/divvisa.htm

Each year, the Diversity Lottery (DV) Program makes 55,000 immigrant visas available through a lottery to people who come from countries with low rates of immigration to the United States. Of such visas, 5,000 are allocated for use under NACARA beginning with DV '99. The State Department (DOS) holds the lottery every year, and randomly selects approximately 110,000 applicants from all qualified entries. The DOS selects the approximately 110,000 applications since many will not complete the visa process. However once 55,000 are issued or the fiscal year ends, the DV program is closed. If you receive a visa through the Diversity Visa Lottery Program you will be authorized to live and work permanently in the United States. You will also be allowed to bring your spouse and any unmarried children under the age of 21 to the United States.


Nations from which persons are eligible to apply for the 2007 DV Lottery:
http://travel.state.gov/visa/immigrants/types/types_1318.html (list at lower end of page, by continent.)

Example: LIST OF COUNTRIES BY REGION WHOSE NATIVES QUALIFY

EUROPE

Albania
Andorra
Armenia
Austria
Azerbaijan
Belarus
Belgium
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Bulgaria
Croatia
Cyprus
Czech Republic
Denmark (including components and dependent areas overseas)
Estonia
Finland
France (including components and dependent areas overseas)
Georgia
Germany
Greece
Hungary
Iceland
Ireland
Italy
Kazakhstan
Kyrgyzstan
Latvia
Liechtenstein
Lithuania
Luxembourg
Macau Special Administrative Region
Macedonia, the Former Yugoslav Republic
Malta
Moldova
Monaco
Netherlands (including components and dependent areas overseas)
Northern Ireland
Norway
Portugal (including components and dependent areas overseas)
Romania
San Marino
Serbia and Montenegro
Slovakia
Slovenia
Spain
Sweden
Switzerland
Tajikistan
Turkey
Turkmenistan
Ukraine
Uzbekistan
Vatican City

Natives of the following European countries do not qualify for this year's diversity program: Great Britain, Poland and Russia. Great Britain (United Kingdom) includes the following dependent areas: Anguilla, Bermuda, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Falkland Islands, Gibraltar, Montserrat, Pitcairn, St. Helena, Turks and Caicos Islands. Note that for purposes of the diversity program only, Northern Ireland is treated separately; Northern Ireland does qualify and is listed among the qualifying areas.


Britain, Poland, and Russia are NOT eligible this year, due to large (50,000+) numbers of immigrants last year. That may change next year, depending. NOTE: If you are from those nations, you may be eligible under other programs, such as employment-based criteria. refer to this ( http://www.uscis.gov/graphics/services/residency/index.htm ) and check each program.


GOOD LUCK.

[Five-to-One]

thankyou soooo much, It's such a b!*ch trying to navigate the uscis websites, this is exactly the link I needed. Look out marine corps here I come

[Fargin]

Tell you what if I ever got the chance I'd go in a second. Sell my apartment and start all over.

[MichaelF]

Bump.
BTT.

[Limeyfellow]

The greencard lottery is a really longshot to get in. You might get in with a work visa but only if you have some really rare skill and have to be picked up by a company thats willing to wait a long time before employing you and spend alot of money to get you across. I came across with a fiance visa and married for my greencard and if you are lucky to go that way it should only take a couple of years to sort out your greencard. If you are anything short of that or a child it can take far longer. You might also get in as an asylum seeker.

Its a pain in the arse to get a greencard.

[MichaelF]

Its a pain in the arse to get a greencard.


But hundreds of thousands do it. Every year.

Worst that can happen is you don't get it.

[digrar]

However only 55000 get through on the lottery, which may be the point that limeyfellow was making. Some countries don't get access to the lottery and other regions have a very small slice of the 55000 spots available. So it's a real lottery and like with a cash lottery you have a low chance of winning it.

[MichaelF]

So it's a real lottery and like with a cash lottery you have a low chance of winning it.


100% chance of not getting in, if you don't try.

Lottery is only one route. There are others, such as employment. Contrary to popular belief, you do not require a PhD in Mechanical Engineering from the Calcutta Institute of Technology.

A lot of guys on this site apparently want to join up. Many of them are not US Citizens. Hence the popular question re: Green Cards. This thread attempts to answer that question via official documents.

[digrar]

Can't argue with that.

[Ordie]

Become a priest.
Get Vatican Citizenship .
Go to America
Become a Chaplin.

Marshall Islanders, belonging to a soverien nation, can join the US Military.

[buckeyedoc]

Become a priest.
Get Vatican Citizenship .
Go to America
Become a Chaplin.

Marshall Islanders, belonging to a soverien nation, can join the US Military.

Military chaplains are required to have their M.Div. (Masters of Divinity) from an accredited university.

[Herrmannek]

Who the hell would want go to US army if he have permanent visa already :). I would enlist to get perm visa not the other way around...

[CFD Ambos]

....but only the "other way round" is feasible, buddy.

[Herrmannek]

....but only the "other way round" is feasible, buddy.
I know :) ....

[Ratamacue]

Anyone else think this thread should be stickied?

[MichaelF]

Anyone else think this thread should be stickied?

Me, but that might be a conflict of interest....

[MichaelF]

Extra note: Most, if not all, US Special Operations Forces (SF, CCT, Rangers, etc) require security clearances which you must be a Citizen to aquire.

Best plan for Foreigners who wish to join one of these units: Get your Green Card, join the Army (or whatever Service) as an Infantryman/Security Cop/Gunner's Mate, aquire your Citizenship on your 1st Enlistment*, then go for it.

*-In order to re-enlist, you must already have your Citizenship, or at least be in the final stages of aquiring it.

[Superking]

Damn you for putting this in my head again....just got over my last "sell all my shijte and blow this socialist popsicle-stand" :P

....damn

[CFD Ambos]

Extra note: Most, if not all, US Special Operations Forces (SF, CCT, Rangers, etc) require security clearances which you must be a Citizen to aquire.

Best plan for Foreigners who wish to join one of these units: Get your Green Card, join the Army (or whatever Service) as an Infantryman/Security Cop/Gunner's Mate, aquire your Citizenship on your 1st Enlistment*, then go for it.

*-In order to re-enlist, you must already have your Citizenship, or at least be in the final stages of aquiring it.

LOL I especially love the "Get your Green Card, join the Army" part !

If this kind of thread has to be stickied, we should start to explain that the big problem is to get the green card ! Getting a green card is nothing military, it's about dealing with papers and situations during years ! Unless you have family in the US and a couple of years to loose, forget it !

Recruiters who would enlist illegal immigrants DO EXIST, however there are very few of them out of thousands of recruiters, so good luck to find one !

The problem can be compared to joining the australian army : you can enlist there if you hold the australian equivalent of a green card, which is as hard to get as the US green card !

[ed316]

This should be a sticky since every month or so there is a thread that asking for anwsers like this.

[Luno]

Great thread i have a question is there a Navy MOSs (Jobs)? Or is it only the army that has MOS system? :)

[ed316]

All the arm forces have an MOS system. They just have different names for them. The Marines MOSs are usaully a four digit number while the Army has an alphabet and number. Airforce and Navy I don't know.

Infantry:

Marines = 0300
Amry= 11 Bravo


I could be wrong. Anyone? Help me out here?

[MichaelF]

Recruiters who would enlist illegal immigrants DO EXIST, however there are very few of them out of thousands of recruiters, so good luck to find one !


I'm sorry, but you are completely wrong.

RECRUITERS do NOT enlist anyone. They assist you in gathering your information (medical history, criminal background, height/weight, educational documents) and introduce you to the option available (bonuses, MOS, etc). Then, they transport you to the regional MEPS (Military Entrance Processing Station).

That is it.

The MEPS staff gives you a physical, checks your paperwork, and a detailer sits down and negotiates a Contract with you, trying to match up your wishes, your qualifications, and the needs of the Army.

The MEPS process will -immediately- catch on to your lack of Permanent Resident status (you need those documents), and send you packing. The Recruiter has nothing to do with it.

Please stop passing bad information.