Expert: Cynthia Bedell - 5/7/2008

Question
I am Romanian citizen, my sister is married to a US soldier, I want to join the US army, I have been told that I need a green card in order to do so. My question is if my brother-in-law makes me a dependent, can I apply for a green card? I cannot apply right now for a green card because my sister is not US citizen, and she would not be able to apply for the next 2 years, so becoming a military dependent could make me eligible for green card? I don't know if this is your area of expertise, I looked everywhere for this matter, and the state department website does not provide this kind of information so that's why I'm asking you. I thank you for your time, I would appreciate very much if you will answer my question. Standing by for a feed-back, Alex

Answer
Dear Alex --

Immigration law is outside my area of expertise.  However, I know you do not need to be a citizen to enlist in our Army.  You could enlist in any specialty for which you are qualified that does not require a security clearance.  After three years of service, you can become a citizen in your own right.

Your brother-in-law cannot make you a dependent, but he should be able to sponsor you to come to this country with a green card, if he is employed and could pay for your upkeep, if necessary.  

Before you go to all that trouble, please be certain you meet the minimum standards for enlistment.  You can chat with an Army recruiter at www.goarmy.com.

Good luck to you.