MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan -- In recent years, the process for non-U.S. citizen spouses wishing to become U.S. citizens could take up to three years.
Now, expeditious naturalization cuts the time down to a little more than 18 months.
Naturalization is the process for foreign nationals to become U.S. citizens.
Expeditious naturalization is the process to become a citizen without waiting for the three-year residency, as the United States requires.
"Your spouse is eligible for expeditious naturalization because you are a member of the U.S. armed services or an employee of the U.S. government and are working overseas for at least 18 months, according to an employee contract or military orders," said Junko Sakamoto, Staff Judge Advocate legal assistant.
Guidelines also state one year must be left on the service member's contract or military orders at the time of the naturalization. Sakamoto said it is best to apply for citizenship as soon as a service member arrives on Station.
"If you're on accompanied orders, which is three-years, it is best to give yourself ample time because the process may take longer than 18 months," she said.
After the decision to become a U.S. citizen is made, an Immigrant Visa Petition, Form I-130 must be completed. To apply for the expeditious naturalization, certain documents must be in order. A proof of U.S. citizenship (U.S. spouse), foreign spouse's birth certificate with English translation, marriage certificate, divorce or death certificates showing termination of all marriages will be required before the process can begin.
A letter from commanding officers for the military or from a U.S. government agency on official letterhead certifying the official date or rotation from overseas services, and fingerprints are also required. Overseas applicants can do this at a U.S. military law enforcement office, local embassy or consulate.
"Once the paperwork is filed, which can take more than six months, an interview is held on American soil," said Sakamoto. "You may request to have the interview in either Guam or Hawaii due to your overseas location."
"We can help you through the processes every step of the way. All we ask of you is to be patient and help us help you," she said.
For further information or questions, call SJA at 253-5594.